Maduka Okoye has taken a significant step towards full fitness after returning to first-team training with Udinese following a shoulder injury, providing a timely boost for both the Serie A club and Nigeria ahead of the new campaign.
The Super Eagles goalkeeper had spent recent weeks training individually as he recovered from the injury and did not feature in any of Udinese’s five pre-season friendly matches. His return to group sessions now raises hopes that he will be available for the start of the competitive season.
Okoye’s return boosts club and country
The 26-year-old heads back into team training after an encouraging summer with Nigeria. Okoye started both international friendlies against Poland and Portugal, producing impressive displays despite conceding three goals across the two matches. His return is also positive news for Udinese head coach Kosta Runjaic and Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle.
Earlier fears suggested the former Watford and Sparta Rotterdam goalkeeper could miss the opening weeks of the season, but his latest progress has eased those concerns.
Udinese remain cautious over recovery
According to mondoudinese, citing Il Gazzettino, Okoye has rejoined his teammates in training, although the club’s medical staff are carefully managing his workload as he continues his recovery.
The shoulder issue has improved, but Udinese are determined not to rush him back into competitive action. Instead, the coaching and medical teams will closely monitor his response during training before making a final decision on his return to match action.
The Friulian club views Okoye as a key figure for the new season and wants to ensure he regains full fitness without risking another setback.
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Focus shifts to competitive fixtures
Udinese are targeting either their Coppa Italia fixture against Padova or their opening Serie A match against Como as the ideal stage for Okoye’s competitive return.
For now, his return to full training represents an important milestone in his recovery and offers fresh optimism for both club and country as the new season approaches.
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