Chiedozie Ogbene: 'I am Nigerian by birth but grew up in Cork, so see myself as an Irishman'

'I said if I could get an opportunity for Ireland, I would definitely take it. My father is hardcore Nigerian but he was grateful when I was recognised'

Chiedozie Ogbene during a Republic of Ireland training session at PGA Catalunya Resort in Girona, Spain on Saturday. Picture: Pedro Salado/Sportsfile

Everybody remembers a successful manager’s first signing and, for Chiedozie Ogbene, Stephen Kenny’s pursuit of his allegiance supplied the belief he once lacked.

Whether it was Alex Ferguson’s recruitment of Brian McClair or Arsene Wenger snaring a young Nicolas Anelka, reigns are often traced back to the manager’s first moves in the transfer market.