Irish-Nigerian reveals how Usain Bolt inspired him to become one of PL's fastest players

Chiedozie Ogbene name-checked Usain Bolt as an inspiration. (Photo Credit: Imago)

Irish-Nigerian reveals how Usain Bolt inspired him to become one of PL's fastest players

Izuchukwu Akawor 12:44 - 03.03.2024

Luton Town's Chiedozie Ogbene watched several videos of Olympic and sprint legend Usain Bolt.

Luton Town forward Chiedozie Ogbene has revealed how studying Olympic legend Usain Bolt helped transform him into one of the Premier League's quickest players.

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that Ogbene is one of several players of Nigerian descent who have impressed at Luton, the newly promoted Premier League side.

Ogbene on Usain Bolt’s inspiration

The 26-year-old Nigerian recorded the third fastest in the topflight this season, hitting a top speed of 36.93km/h against Fulham in November.

And Ogbene says watching videos of eight-time Olympic gold medallist Bolt aided his development.

Chiedozie Ogbene evades Liverpool's Gomes in the PL.
Chiedozie Ogbene evades Liverpool's Gomes in the PL. (Photo Credit: Imago)

"As a kid, I watched a lot of sprinting videos, a big Usain Bolt fan," Ogbene told TNT Sports' Sign-Up show according to Eurosport.

"I've watched the Olympic finals multiple times, just watching Usain Bolt. If I can perfect how I can run and added with my football skills it does give me that extra 1%."

Usain Bolt || Credit: X

Ogbene also bulked up in the gym when younger to build his muscle mass and worked closely with his brothers who compete in track and field.

The winger has been one of the revelations so far for Luton during their impressive debut Premier League campaign.

Chiedozie Ogbene at full speed for Luton Town.
Chiedozie Ogbene at full speed for Luton Town.

His searing pace down the flanks has been a constant threat, with Ogbene hoping he can eventually reach the top spot as the league's fastest player.

"I'm hoping to [be the fastest], maybe not now, maybe in the summer when the weather's nice and my muscles a bit warmer," he added.

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For now, Ogbene is happily wreaking havoc at full speed whilst helping the Hatters upset the Premier League's elite.

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