Noah Okafor's World Cup Frustration Fuels Leeds United Determination
Noah Okafor did not hide it. The World Cup hurt.
Barely used by Switzerland despite arriving on the back of what he calls an “amazing season”, the Leeds United forward has come back to club duty with a point to prove – and he has picked up that fight in white, not red.
First steps back – against Manchester United
Okafor made his first appearance of pre-season on Wednesday, stepping off the bench against Manchester United after only returning to training last week. Switzerland’s run to the quarter-finals extended his summer break, but it also left him stewing on the sidelines.
“It was amazing to be back with the team on the pitch,” he told BBC Radio Leeds, the relief obvious. “I was really happy to be back and now we just have to keep building, working and looking forward day by day.”
The minutes were limited, the intent was not. This, he stressed, is his game.
“That’s the game I play, the game I used to play. I need a few more days to work on my fitness… then when it starts I am ready.”
World Cup frustration fuels club fire
For all the joy of a deep run at a major tournament, Okafor’s own World Cup amounted to just 19 minutes as a substitute. It still stings.
“The World Cup was not so good for me because I didn’t play so much. The coach didn’t let me play, I don’t know why because I did really great,” he said.
“I came with a lot of confidence, I did an amazing season but in the end he just decides like this.”
There was no attempt to dress it up. No diplomatic shrug. Just a clear sense that a chance slipped away. So he has parked it.
“Now I keep it to the side, so just focus on Leeds. Give every day 100% in training and this season help the team again like last season.”
Hungry for more at Leeds
Last season, Okafor delivered eight goals and one assist in 28 Premier League appearances. Solid numbers. Not enough for him.
“I am even more hungry than last season,” he said. “I adapted more in the Premier League and adapted to the team.”
That adaptation now has to turn into elevation. Leeds will demand it, and he knows it.
“The most important thing is to stay healthy and fit, keep every day with a smile and try to help the team with goals and assists.”
The World Cup may have stalled his momentum, but his response is clear: let the frustration show on the scoresheet, not in the quotes.
