Kamaldeen Sulemana has named Nigerian legend Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha as his greatest football influence, citing the former Super Eagles playmaker as a key source of inspiration throughout his career.
In a recent interview with Showmax, the Southampton and Ghana international spoke candidly about the footballers who shaped his game.
At the top of his list was Okocha, whose flair and creativity left a lasting impression on Sulemana from a young age.
“In the Premier League, positionally, I would say Jay-Jay Okocha is my reference,” Sulemana said, underlining the influence of the former Bolton Wanderers midfielder on his playing style.
Okocha, known for his dazzling footwork and inventive approach, made his name not only in England but also on the international stage, having won the Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria in 1994 and Olympic gold at the 1996 Atlanta Games.
Sulemana, who joined Southampton from Rennes and has made his mark in the English Championship, often draws comparisons to players known for their speed and technical prowess.
He admitted that Brazilian icon Ronaldinho was another idol growing up, noting the stylistic similarities they share. “Ronaldinho is someone I’ve always admired — his confidence, his flair — but Jay-Jay is my favourite,” he explained.
While the Ghanaian winger paid tribute to a range of African greats — including Sadio Mané, Mohamed Salah, Yaya Touré, and Samuel Eto’o — it was Okocha who remained his standout hero.
Sulemana’s admiration for the Nigerian star highlights the cross-generational impact African players have had on one another, particularly within the Premier League.
Okocha, widely regarded as one of the most skillful African players of all time, made 124 appearances for Bolton during a spell that elevated both the club and his legacy.
His memorable performances in England continue to inspire young players across the continent, including Sulemana, who was only a toddler during the peak of Okocha’s Premier League career.
For Sulemana, the connection is more than stylistic — it’s emotional. Emulating Okocha’s courage on the ball and his willingness to entertain has become part of his football identity.
The Southampton man, known for his rapid acceleration and direct style, has increasingly become a player who thrives on taking defenders on — much like his idol did two decades earlier.
Though he acknowledges the excellence of other African stars who have left their mark on English football, Sulemana’s loyalty to Okocha speaks to a deeper sense of personal admiration.
“There are so many great players who came from Africa, but Okocha — he’s the one,” he concluded.
As Kamaldeen Sulemana continues his journey in English football, he does so with a clear sense of legacy — one shaped by the trailblazers before him and driven by a desire to carry that torch forward.
His praise for Okocha serves not just as a personal reflection but as a testament to the enduring legacy of African excellence in the world’s most competitive leagues.
