Udinese head coach Kosta Runjaic has maintained total trust in Maduka Okoye despite the goalkeeper’s two-month ban for his involvement in a betting scandal.
Okoye was handed the ban after he was alleged to have deliberately picked up a yellow card in a Serie A match involving Udinese and Lazio in the 2023/24 season.
The Nigeria international is now free to return to action again after serving the ban.
Romania international Răzvan Sava has done well in his absence, and many expect him to keep his place between the sticks.
Runjaic is however rooting for Okoye to return to the position.
“Okoye has always been our number one, even when he wasn’t available. I’m happy he’s back. I can’t tell you if he’ll play in Cremona, but he’s ready,” Runjaic told the club’s official website.
“He’s trained well and has also used this period to reflect on himself, emerging stronger. We’re happy to have him back and have faith in him.”
The Zebras will be guests of Cremonese in a Serie A game on Monday night (today).