Nigerian fan favourite happy to play his part after scoring a hat-trick in recent charity game
Jay-Jay Okocha was delighted to return to Macron Stadium for last weekend’s Bolton Wanderers Community Trust and Supporters’ Trust Legends Match.
Turning out for both Team Kelly and Team McGinlay in the charity game, the Nigerian scored a hat-trick much to the delight of the BL6 crowd.
Thrilling supporters with his performance, Okocha thanked the fans after being able to entertain them one more time, ten years after his initial departure from the club.
“It is an honour to be back here,” he told bwfc.co.uk after the final whistle. “I had a great time here and it was good to receive a wonderful reception.
“It’s good to see all the fans again because they were right behind me from the onset. There is nothing better than having fans behind you, they are like a twelfth man. I can only say thank you.
“I felt like I was back home. I have a lot of great memories from my time here. My children were raised here and it was good to be back.”
Reflecting on his match-winning performance, a modest Okocha revealed how he was just happy to play his part.
“I don’t know how it happened,” he said. “I was just trying to have fun, even though my legs are a bit gone. I enjoyed every moment of it.
“I couldn’t do much, but I was trying to. The encouragement from the fans helped a little bit so I managed to get away with a few tricks.
“It was great to play with so many former team-mates too because I haven’t seen most of them for many years now. It was fantastic to see them again and in good health.
“It’s always good when people come together to show their passion and love for a club. I am delighted to be here to also contribute. Hopefully the club is heading in the right direction.
“We reached a great height when I was here, playing in the UEFA Cup. This is where the club belongs. We have to stick together and try and take the club back where they belong.”