Tottenham star Udogie reacts to first Italy call-up after turning down chance to represent Super Eagles :: All Nigeria Soccer

Tottenham Hotspur are still unbeaten in the Premier League after eight matches and provisionally top the standings following a hard-fought 1-0 win over newcomers Luton Town at Kenilworth Road in the early kickoff on Saturday.

 

Ange Postecoglou’s men played the entirety of the second half with ten players due to Yves Bissouma being sent off for simulation.

 

Micky van de Ven fired a left-footed effort past Hatters goalkeeper Thomas Kaminski for what proved to be the game-winning goal six minutes into the second half.

 

Destiny Udogie, fresh from receiving his first ever call-up to Italy’s senior national team, started his eighth consecutive game in the Premier League and was in action for 82 minutes before making way for Ben Davies. 

 

Born in Verona to Nigerian parents, Udogie wasn’t a surprise inclusion in Italy’s squad announced on Friday as manager Luciano Spalletti and his predecessor Roberto Mancini had been keeping tabs on the defender with a view to handing him his first call-up. 

 

Although he is eligible to represent the Super Eagles, Udogie and his camp publicly stated that the player’s international future lies with Italy, rather than the three-time African champions. 

 

The fullback is delighted to earn his first call-up to Italy’s senior national team and is hoping to return to Tottenham Hotspur in good physical condition. 

 

Speaking to Spurs Play after the win versus Luton Town, Udogie said: “It’s a big dream for me.

 

“As a young kid I was always dreaming for this moment and today it has come so I have to just stay focused, enjoy the time, work hard for the team and give my best.

“No injuries (on international duty). I will come back good.”

 

Udogie was a bit-part player for Italy at the 2023 European U21 Championship but has seen his stock rise massively on the back of his excellent displays at Tottenham Hotspur. 

 

 

 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

 

 

Photo Credit: tottenhamhotspur.com 

 

 

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