Chiedozie Ogbene interview: 'I can tell the kids I’ve played in stadiums like Old Trafford'

THERE’S an engine running but a piece of the motor is missing. Ahead of their visit to Manchester United today, Luton Town’s bus is transporting the squad to the station for the lunchtime train north but Chiedozie Ogbene is cutting it fine.

His infectious personality has gripped their quaint training ground nestled in the Bedford outskirts.

Between the morning session, welcoming the Irish Examiner, and dining, he’s packed a lot in before the commute.

And then he remembers there’s a shower to take. Sitting in the canteen observing through the window Luton’s newest star scamper and screech around the courtyard are Kevin Foley and Alan McCormack. They’re both back at the club they played for in coaching positions but smile at the uniqueness of their compatriot.

They’ve long reached the stage of slowing down but the pace of Ogbene’s accent is only accelerating. 

He has every right to have a spring in his step, for his Premier League introduction is creating a splash and not just in his homeland. From rattling Liverpool last Sunday to Old Trafford, where a vulnerable United await, this is everything he wanted. And more.

“I always wanted to be a professional footballer but didn’t know what level I’d get to,” he reflects while sitting in the club’s gym.

“Premier League was the dream but I didn’t think I’d get here and score my first goal by 26.

“Everything has moved so fast over six years but there were times I didn’t think those achievements would be possible.” 

That was understandable when he walked out on Brentford and Thomas Frank of his own volition. While the Bees were on a trajectory to become a Premier League staple, he didn’t see himself part of the equation and changed lanes.

“When I left Brentford, the belief