Ogbene: 'My journey from Limerick FC and the League of Ireland to Luton Town FC in the Premier League is special to me'
Chiedozie Ogbene holds off France's Dayot Upamecano during a Euro 2024 qualifier in the Aviva Stadium. Credit: Eddie Lennon (ETPhotos)
Luton Town has confirmed the signing of Republic of Ireland international forward, Chiedozie Ogbene.
The 26-year-old will officially become a Hatter on July 1 when his contract with Rotherham United comes to an end.
Ogbene scored nine goals and assisted four times for Rotherham last season. Since his first cap in June 2021, he has scored four goals in 15 games for the Boys in Green.
Born in Nigeria, Ogbene began his professional career in Ireland playing for Cork City and Limerick.
He moved to England in 2017 to join Brentford, then a Championship side. After a brief loan spell at Exeter City in the 2018-19 season, Ogbene joined Rotherham United in August 2019.
During his four seasons with the Millers, he made 136 appearances, scored 36 goal involvements, and enjoyed two promotions to the Championship as well as a Papa Johns Trophy triumph.
Luton's manager, Rob Edwards, shared his excitement about the signing.
"Chio is a really exciting addition and is someone we’ve liked for a while. In my opinion, he was their [Rotherham's] best and most threatening player."
"He brings experience of top level football as an Irish international and has played in some high level games, particularly against France who are one of the best nations in the world. He’s still at a good age where he’s willing to learn and he’s a fantastic human being."
Ogbene himself was ecstatic about his move to Luton.
“I’m delighted to be here as a Premier League player. From Limerick FC and the League of Ireland to Luton Town FC in the Premier League, my journey is special to me."
"But to be considered to be a Luton Town player with an opportunity to feature in the Premier League was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down,” he said.
