“Traditionally it's been difficult for Africans to play over here, mainly because the African calendar is very different to that in Europe. Most of the coaches over here can't accept that we have to go back home to play at the Nations' Cup for a month while the season is still on over here. That made people reluctant to sign Africans.”

Nigerian former professional footballer

Jay-Jay Okocha is a Nigerian former professional footballer, born in 1973. He played as an attacking midfielder and is widely remembered for his skill, technique, and creativity on the ball. Okocha earned 73 caps for Nigeria between 1993 and 2006, scoring 14 goals, and was part of three FIFA World Cup squads. He became especially known for his turns, feints, and his distinctive stepover, which helped define his style of play.