Former Brentford and Nigeria defender Sam Sodje during an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa backed Frank Onyeka’s decision to join Coventry City on loan from Brentford, insisting the move should not be viewed negatively.
Sodje believes competition within Brentford’s squad contributed to Onyeka’s situation rather than a lack of quality.
“Because things didn’t work out for him at Brentford doesn’t mean he is a bad player. When you play for a club like Brentford, you have to understand that they constantly bring in players, and competition for places is always high,” Sodje exclusively told Footy-Africa.
“They also have quality players in the squad, and sometimes selection decisions come down to the manager’s opinion rather than a player’s ability.”
Former PSG star Godwin Okpara reacts to Super Eagles’ January transfer moves
Onyeka’s move has raised concerns among sections of the Nigerian media, with some questioning his decision to leave a Premier League club for a second-tier side.
However, Sodje argued Coventry’s historical stature makes the move understandable.
“My position is based on facts. I am a Brentford boy and a Hall of Fame member at Brentford. Many people discussing this move do not fully understand football. When you compare both clubs in terms of size and history, Coventry is actually a bigger club.
Yes, Brentford is currently a Premier League club and a very good one, but in terms of overall size and historical stature, Coventry is bigger. However, many people in Nigeria may not fully understand this context. I know the English league system very well. The Championship is extremely competitive and is equivalent to many countries’ top divisions. Hopefully, Coventry can return to the Premier League,” he added.
Sodje also suggested Onyeka’s decision may have been influenced by the long-term vision presented by Coventry:
“Secondly, nobody truly knows what was offered to him or the long-term project that was presented. Before Chelsea became one of the biggest clubs in the world, they also attracted players by selling them a strong project and vision.”
Sodje believes the move could benefit Onyeka’s career.
“I believe this is a good move for him. It also shows the type of player he is — someone who wants to play regularly and contribute on the pitch rather than sit on the bench,” he concluded.
Sky Blue suits you. 💎 pic.twitter.com/vcrnUMFA68
— Coventry City (@Coventry_City) February 2, 2026
Onyeka joined Championship side Coventry for the remainder of the 2025-26 season, with the agreement including an obligation to make the move permanent if the club secures promotion to the Premier League.
The 28-year-old midfielder struggled for regular game time at Brentford and spent last season on loan at Bundesliga club Augsburg, where he made 31 appearances. After returning to Brentford this season, Onyeka again found opportunities limited.
Onyeka joined Brentford from Danish club Midtjylland in July 2021 and made 87 appearances in all competitions for the Bees. He has featured nine times for Brentford this season, including six substitute appearances in the Premier League.
The midfielder was also part of the Nigeria squad that reached the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and started in their penalty shootout defeat by Morocco.
