By: Eche Amos
Little known Nigerian, Anthony Chigaemezu Uzodimma was in superb form for his Kayserispor side’s 3-1 thrashing of hapless Ümraniyespor in the match-day 27 of the Turkish Super League at home on Monday, 9th April, 2023.
Uzodimma who played the entire duration of the game was rated third best player on the field at 4.1 percent after successfully executing 29 passes and committing just one foul. Only scorers, Bernard Mensah and Mame Baba Thiam, got better ratings than the former Amunike Football Academy of Lagos and Khartoum National FC of Sudan utility player.
The defender was solid rock at the right-back, restricting opponents to manoeuvre through his territory while also ensuring total annihilation of the guests who are 18th on the 19-team league table, a result that sees Kayserispor now placed 7th with 44 points in the 2022/23 season.
Uzodimma who made his 8th league appearance for Kayserispor this season is expected to be part of the travelling squad to face table-topping Galatasaray this weekend before hosting 11th placed Kasimpasa on Wednesday, next week.
Originally a defensive midfielder, the 23-year old can equally be despatched to play other roles on the field depending on the discretion of the Coach.
The Imo State-born liberal player said he was happy to help his side secure the maximum points as they continue their quest for a place in the Super Eight and eventually Super Four positions before the end of the Season.
“It was a difficult game for us because we played against a team struggling to pull out of the relegation position.
“It was great altogether, and I am happy that we got the maximum points at the end of the day.
“Our expectation is to first stabilise in the league, then we aim for the Super Eight and most importantly, the Super Four.
“From the latter stage, we can then hope that the eventual winners of the league would also win the Cup tournament to pave way for us to qualify for Europe as 4th placed team.”
He thanked his supporters in Nigeria for constantly standing by him, assuring that he would continue to work hard to make them happy.
“I truly appreciate the support of my esteemed fans back home in Nigeria.
“Rest assured that I would always do everything within my power to bring smiles on your faces.”
Uzodimma who did not hide his admiration for Chelsea Football Club of England, however, revealed that, all things going as planned, his dream is to play for the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the future.
“I love Chelsea Football Club and it’s my dream Club. Also, I admire N’golo Kante of Chelsea and France.
“But I think the best feeling for me will be to adorn the national colours of my country of origin, which is Nigeria.
“I hope to play for the Super Eagles some day.”
