Former Super Eagles captain, Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha has been described as an exceptional and awesome talent, who was a ‘magician’ that stood out among his class during his playing days.
Footballllive.ng report that the latest shower of praise on Okocha is coming from England ex-international, Rio Ferdinand, who disclosed that he used to buy tapes of Okocha’s matches during the Nigerian star’s days at Paris-Saint Germaine of France.
Ferdinand went on to recall how Okocha then set the English Premier League aglow with spectacular performances at Bolton Wanderers and Hull City, all of which the ex-Manchester United defender said were so remarkable and forever memorable.
Ferdinand stated during a ceremony in Lagos at the weekend that he loved watching the Nigerian national team in general, but insists the one who stood out for him on the individual level was Okocha.
He stressed: “Okocha was exceptional and he stood out. Without any doubt, he was a magician.
“Back then, when he was at PSG, myself and friends used to go to the extreme to buy tapes featuring him and we sat back to enjoy his displays which to us were awesome.
“When he came to the Premier League, first at Bolton and then Hull City, I enjoyed him more on close quarters.
“He was simply peerless as he was far ahead of his time. I think Nigeria is blessed to have such a wonderful ball player who was in perfect understanding of the entertainment aspect of football.”
