Former Super Eagles’ captain, Austin ‘Jay-Jay’ Okocha is basking in the euphoria of accolades from former Arsenal of England star, Mesut Ozil naming him among his admirers in the world of football, megasportsarena.com reports.
Ozil caused a stir on his arrival at Fenerbahçe of Turkey, following his successful transfer from The Gunners, as the Germany international and 2014 World Cup winner revealed his admiration for Okocha during presentation, and the Nigerian star has now reciprocated with gratitude.
Okocha admitted he was surprised hearing what Ozil said about him, such that the former international star and two time British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) African Player of The Year expressed satisfaction with the German midfielder’s recent declaration.
‘The Emperor’ went on to back Ozil to succeed at Fenerbahçe, after the former Real Madrid of Spain master midfielder described Okocha as the star he followed while growing up.
He recounte how the Eagles’ lend starred for that same club back in those days, during which time the Turkey-born German star adored the Nigerian icon’s number 10 jersey and name on the back.
Ozil disclosed: “About 20-25 years ago, I was an immigrant Turkish kid who was running after the soccer ball with the Fenerbahçe shirt with the number 10 Jay Jay Okocha written on his back in the streets of Gelsenkirchen, thankfully, it was my honour to wear this jersey that I have been dreaming of for many years.”
In reaction to that inspiring revelation, 47-year-old Okocha, who won two titles during his time with Ferne, has now tipped the ex-Arsenal star to boost the club’s charge for the Super Lig title this season, even as they currently lie two points behind leaders and Istanbul rivals, Besiktas.
Okocha told Goal: “I was very happy. I did not know about the last tweet Mesut Ozil posted. It is very pleasing to be the idol of such a world star player, to inspire him. Mesut is a world-class player. It is a very good thing [for him] to come to Fenerbahçe.
“I think he will definitely be successful in Fenerbahçe. Mesut’s career is similar to mine; we both played in Germany and England and he came to Fenerbahçe like me now. I am very happy.”
