Udinese manager Kosta Runjaic has confirmed that Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is available for the Coppa Italia meeting with Padova after overcoming a shoulder problem sooner than expected.
Okoye picked up the shoulder injury while Udinese were holding their pre-season training camp in Lienz, Austria. At the time, the expectation was that the Nigeria international would be sidelined for the opening weeks of the new campaign. That outlook has changed after his recovery progressed more rapidly than initially anticipated.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Runjaic confirmed the goalkeeper is in the squad for the cup tie and could be involved against Padova. The coach said: “Okoye and Unai Gomez are available. Goglichidze took a knock in training, nothing serious, but we’re evaluating him for tomorrow (today). Everyone else will be available except Zanoli and Chakvetadze.”
Okoye, aged 26, was one of Udinese’s most reliable performers last term. He made 30 league appearances for the Zebras, providing one assist and recording 10 clean sheets. Before joining Udinese, Okoye played for Sparta Rotterdam.
Runjaic’s confirmation means Okoye could return to competitive action when Udinese face Padova in the Coppa Italia.
