Luton Town winger Chiedozie Ogbene's incredible journey from Gaelic footballer to pursuing Premier League stardom

In 2015, Chiedozie Ogbene stood at a pivotal moment, preparing to engage in the most significant phone call of his existence. With an undeniable talent for Gaelic football, the Luton winger confided, "While my aspirations leaned towards becoming a professional footballer, I nurtured a divine aptitude for Gaelic football."

Ogbene, now 26, has never regretted his decision since. The next pivotal moment arrived two years later while he was representing Cork City in the League of Ireland.

"I played against a friend of mine who was associated with Limerick, and I reached out to him via text to obtain the manager's contact information. My intention was to secure a three-day trial," he explains. "During that time, Cork City was a formidable team, and I didn't believe there would be a suitable position for me in terms of playing time. At that stage, my primary goal was to gain experience in men's football.

"After completing the three-day trial with Limerick, they offered me a contract, accompanied by the assurance that I would be actively involved and given more playing opportunities. I vividly recall taking that leap of faith. To pursue my aspirations, I would commute for an hour on the bus from Cork to Limerick."

Ogbene capitalized on his opportunity with Limerick, and within a single season, he garnered attention from Brentford, ultimately signing a lucrative three-year contract. However, the transition to England proved challenging as he had to adjust to being away from his loved ones and friends.

"I'm quite sentimental, being a person who values family. I often experienced intense longing for home. Apart from football, I had no family or friends around me," expressed Ogbene. "it was quite challenging for me, and unfortunately, my stint at Brentford didn't pan out as I had hoped."

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Ogbene with the Papa Johns Trophy after beating Sutton at Wembley in 2022 with Rotherham

Ogbene's loan to Exeter in League Two propelled his understanding of the game to new heights.

"In those days, I was quite inexperienced and driven by personal desires," he reflected. "However, during my time at Exeter, I grasped the concept that football is primarily about fulfilling the team's requirements and the significance of securing victories. I acquired knowledge regarding the significance of maintaining a clean sheet and obstructing opponents' shots."

When relocating to Rotherham, I carried that invaluable experience with me. Having developed a greater sense of maturity, I had the opportunity to meet Paul Warne, the manager, and his esteemed coaching staff. They graciously enlightened me on their expectations as a player, and I fully absorbed their guidance from the very first day. This assimilation of knowledge undoubtedly played a significant role in my rapid adjustment and overall success.

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Ogbene in action for Ireland against France's Kylian Mbappe during Euro 2024 qualifying

Ogbene showcased his exceptional speed, power, and dribbling prowess while playing for Rotherham.

As a result, he earned a call-up to the national team in 2020, becoming the first player of African descent to represent the Republic of Ireland. To date, he has accumulated 15 caps and scored four goals for his country.

Rotherham secured two promotions from League One, and they clinched victory in the Papa John's Trophy final at Wembley, with a significant contribution from their player. Despite the odds, he played a crucial role in helping the club avoid relegation from the Championship during the previous season, before being signed by Luton.

"I was genuinely surprised since Luton, being a Premier League team, had the opportunity to choose from a wide range of options," he commented.

"Just after the gaffer [Rob Edwards] gave me a call, he expressed his admiration for my qualities and abilities, emphasizing my talent in carrying the ball, speed, and strength, which align with Luton's core values of perseverance and honesty. It's a perfect match."

"It was a decision I couldn't reject."

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Ogbene joined Rotherham in August 2019 and made 136 appearances across four seasons

Ogbene, a devoted Liverpool supporter, had always aspired to be a part of the team. However, he now finds himself on the opposing side as they go head-to-head in the highly competitive Premier League. Before facing Liverpool, Ogbene and his team will be going to Brighton on Saturday. This marks their first appearance in the top-flight fixture since 1992, and they are determined to make a promising start to their monumental journey.

"This is the league that every player dreams of being a part of," expressed Ogbene with anticipation. "Undoubtedly, it will pose formidable challenges, but I am genuinely excited for this opportunity. It is through such challenges that I, as an individual, and our club as a whole will grow and compete at the highest level."

"I recall facing Luton in the previous season, and they showcased their formidable prowess both in defense and attack, exhibiting a physical style of play. They truly were an outstanding team. However, this time around, we find ourselves entering the match as the underdogs. Undoubtedly, the upcoming year will present its challenges, but we are prepared and filled with enthusiasm for what lies ahead."

Luton Town: Premier League 2023/24 fixtures

Luton Town's return to the top flight sees them take on Brighton at the Amex in their opening Saturday of the 2023/24 Premier League season.

The promoted team, which defeated Coventry City on penalties in the Championship playoff final, will be traveling to Chelsea on August 26. In November, they will face Liverpool at home and Manchester United away on November 4 and 11 respectively.

Kenilworth Road will be the venue for the matches against Arsenal and Manchester City, both hosted by the Hatters, at the beginning of December. To conclude the month, Chelsea will be visiting.

Rob Edwards' team will have a busy schedule in February as they host Manchester United and face Liverpool at Anfield. They will also have away matches at the Emirates and the Etihad in April. The Hatters will conclude their campaign on May 19th with a home game against Fulham at Kenilworth Road.