Former Brentford defender Sam Sodje during an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa praised teenage forward Kaye Furo following his full debut in the Bees’ FA Cup victory over Macclesfield.
Speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa, former Nigeria international Sodje said the forward must now be given time to establish himself in the senior side.
“It’s good for him. He needs time in the first team,” Sodje told Footy-Africa. “And I’m sure he’s going to get more opportunities to show everyone what he can do. He is at an amazing club and he’s a nice player.”
Furo is expected to compete for further opportunities in domestic cup competitions and the Premier League as he continues his development this season.
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Sodje, who previously played for Brentford, believes the club provides the right environment for young players to flourish.
“Brentford is a family-oriented club and a great one at that,” he added. “As a former footballer myself, I had opportunities to join other clubs when I was at Brentford. I also had offers elsewhere, but I chose to go where I would play regularly. That’s the most important thing for a young player.
Joining Brentford gives him a better chance of playing consistently. It’s different from joining a big club like Manchester United, where opportunities can sometimes be limited. I believe Brentford is the right move for him. I’m confident he will do well and earn his place in the first team. If he wants to move to a bigger club in the future, he needs to play games now. I’m sure he will get that opportunity at Brentford.”
Furo, the son of former Super Eagles defender Iyenemi Furo, is the latest Nigerian to sign for Brentford.
The club also has Nigerian international Fredrick Benjamin on its books, although he is yet to make his senior debut, while Frank Onyeka joined Coventry City in January.
Sodje says he is pleased to see Brentford continuing to look towards Nigeria for emerging talent.
“I’m also proud that Brentford is looking toward Nigeria. They have always appreciated African players. I love Brentford — we have a good relationship — and we’re working to help open up the Nigerian market for them, bringing in more talented players and growing the fan base as well.”
The 19-year-old started as Brentford secured a 1-0 win against the sixth-tier side in Monday’s fourth-round tie, with head coach Keith Andrews making several changes to his line-up.
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Furo, who joined the Premier League club from Belgian side Club Brugge earlier this year, is regarded as one of Europe’s brightest young prospects. He progressed through Brugge’s academy before sealing a move to west London.
