Udinese goalkeeper Okoye expresses gratitude for having legend Alexis in the team

Okoye shared with The Italian Football Podcast: "It was incredible. I vividly remember the moment when he first walked into the dressing room. I was seated in my chair when I caught sight of him. Without hesitation, I immediately stood up to greet him and shake his hand, thinking to myself, 'It's Alexis Sanchez.'

"He's a legend of football, not just a legend of Udinese, but of the game in general. It's a privilege and I'm proud to be able to work with a legend like him."

On young teammate Lorenzo Lucca, he added: "Absolutely, he has the potential (to become Italy's number 9). For me, he is already a top-level striker. Like me, he is young and has to work on many things. Sooner or later, 100%, he will get there. He has all the qualities.

"He has the height, but he also has the skills of a striker who is not so tall, if you know what I mean. He is a very special player, I am happy to play with him. He will definitely be there (with Italy)".