Ime Okon’s Nigeria or South Africa dilemma: Gavin Hunt offers his opinion

SuperSport United coach Gavin Hunt has offered his opinion as Ime Okon weighs his option on whether to represent Nigeria or South Africa.

At this stage, the centre-back is eligible to represent South Africa or Nigeria at international level.

The 18-year-old has had a great start in the DStv Premiership despite stiff competition from experienced defenders like the duo of Siyanda Xulu and Thulani Hlatshwayo.

So far this season, he has made 10 appearances in all competitions. He has helped the team to keep four clean sheets.

GAVIN HUNT ON IME OKON REPRESENTING BAFANA BAFANA

According to the mentor, the centre-back Okon has great potential to do well if he’s given a chance in the national team.

“We found him at Randburg last year, he’s amazing. It’s an unbelievable story,” said Hunt.

“He will find his path, he got picked in the [Bafana Bafana] preliminary squad twice now. I’m sure they will have a closer look at him in the weeks to come.

“He might be an interesting one to take away in January [in 2024 AFCON finals in Ivory Coast].”

GAVIN HUNT PRAISES IME OKON’S ATTRIBUTES

The former Kaizer Chiefs coach further praised Okon for the attributes he possesses.

“He certainly has huge potential, but potential means nothing in South Africa. But he’s got good attributes which is the most important thing.

“Those types of things will lead us in the way and direction he goes. I think we should worry about that right now,” Hunt added.

Okon is in line to make an appearance when the Tshwane side takes on Polokwane City FC in the Carling Knockout Cup, Round of 16.

Kickoff on Sunday at TUT Stadium on Sunday is at 6pm.

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