Nigerian striker Brendan Ogbu relishing chance to prove himself in Europe with Sligo Rovers

Brendan Ogbu says he’s looking forward to the opportunity to ‘prove myself in Europe’ after the Nigerian striker signed a one-year deal with Sligo Rovers.

The versatile 25-year-old had been on manager Liam Buckley’s radar during his time in charge of St Patrick’s Athletic but ultimately wasn’t offered a deal.

Buckley opted to take another look Ogbu when he took the reins at the Bit o’ Red at the end of the last year and the striker has signed, pending international clearance.

Ogbu spent the past season with Nigerian second-tier side Bayelsu United and scored 12 goals in just 14 appearance.

He previously spent time with Enugu Rangers, FC Heartland, Warri Wolves, Ifeanyi and, most recently, Al-Hedood in Iraq.

The Enugu native was part of the Heartland side that won the Nigerian FA Cup in 2012, scoring 17 goals in all competitions that season.

“Brendan can play across the front three including as a number nine,” manager Liam Buckley told the club’s official website.

“He came across my radar at St Patrick’s Athletic but at the time we had Christy Fagan and he wasn’t available then afterwards.

“We needed to broaden our search in looking for a striker because it’s a limited market and Brendan has proven himself as a goalscorer in Nigeria and is someone I feel is worth bringing here.

“He’s a big lad, very dangerous around the penalty area and he’s going to bring something we’re looking for.

“It’s up to the team to be playing well to create chances and I think he’ll relish this opportunity. We’re looking forward to him joining up with us.”

Ogbu said: “I have been so keen to receive a chance like this and prove myself in Europe.

“I can’t wait to meet all the Sligo fans and I want to help the team have a very good season.

“I will be prepared correctly to play for Sligo Rovers and try to score goals like I have done in Nigeria for many years.”