UZOHO’S STERLING PERFORMANCE EARNS UEFA EUROPA LEAGUE NOMINATION

Nigeria international goalkeeper Francis Uzoho produced an outstanding performance at Old Trafford in the Europa League match against Manchester United on Thursday.

Uzoho started in place of the injured Fabiano, who was the goaltender in last week’s meeting between both clubs in Cyprus, pulling off a string of fine saves.  Obviously he could be picked as the most outstanding player in the match despite his team going down 1-0 in the 93 minute.

Before Scott Mc Tominay goal having come in as a substitute for Casemiro, the 23 year-old had made superb saves denying the likes Marcus Rashford and Brazilian international Casemiro from scoring. His ealy intent on what to expect from him was made in the early stages of seconds within 45 seconds keeping out Antony and Rashford effort.

The stunning performance of the Nigerian goalkeeper obviously got the attention of Manchester United coach, who waited after the match to exchange greetings with the 2018 FIFA World Cup appearance member of the Super Eagles. Ten Hang said to him  ”well done”! Having seen the Uzoho make brilliant saves with so many clear goals not in due to efforts that could find the Nigerian in Premier League soon. They both had a hand shake!

In a post- match press conference, Uzoho said, “I am not disappointed, because we had a good game, but we would have preferred to have got at least a point. It is a dream come true to play here. I have dreamt about it for a long, long time.”

Meanwhile, Omonia coach Neil Lennon, despite the defeat, is happy with Uzoho’s performance which prompted the coach to bring him to the press conference. The rising Nigeria star made 11 saves in the match and only conceded in the 93 minutes.

With the sterling performance he has been nominated for UEFA Europa Player of the Week and save Day award. This is his second appearance for his Cyprus club.