Playing for Belgium my dream come true: Origi
Lille's forward Divock Origi (C) celebrates after scoring a goal during the French L1 football match Lille vs Troyes on February 2, 2013 at the Grand Stade Stadium in Villeneuve d'Ascq. The player expressed his delight at what he termed as an “opportunity to represent my country at the World Cup” saying his decision to play for Belgium instead of Kenya is a dream come true. AFP/PHOTO
What you need to know:
- And the player himself separately expressed his delight at what he termed as an “opportunity to represent my country at the World Cup”.
- Former Harambee Stars coach Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee described Origi’s decision as a lost opportunity for Kenya.
Football administrators, coaches and supporters in Kenya on Wednesday gave mixed reactions on Divock Origi Okoth’s decision to play for Belgium instead of Kenya.
And the player himself separately expressed his delight at what he termed as an “opportunity to represent my country at the World Cup”.
“It is a dream that has come true for me and I am really happy. I cannot say that I expected it although I was aware that I was being followed and there was a possibility of me being selected. I am sure I will learn a lot in Brazil then I will come and give back to my country,” Divock, 19, told his French club Lille official website.
Divock - son of former Kenya international Mike Origi Okoth - was named in Belgium’s 24-man World Cup squad on Tuesday, effectively ending the teenager’s chances of playing for his parent’s country of birth, Kenya.
“We really wanted Divock here because he possesses exceptional talent, but we respect his decision and wish him well just like we wished Obama well,” Robert Asembo, a national football administrator said.
LOST OPPORTUNITY
Former Harambee Stars coach Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee described Origi’s decision as a lost opportunity for Kenya.
“One man’s loss is another man’s gain. Harambee Stars coach Adel Amrouche went over to Belgium and held talks with his father but ultimately the decision rested upon the lad. We wish him well,” Mulee said.
Harambee Stars first choice goalkeeper Arnold Origi - who is Divock’s first cousin - took to social media to describe the news as ‘fantastic’.
“Fantastic day, fantastic news. Now there is no doubt on which team I will be supporting at the World Cup. Congratulations Divock Origi. #teamreddevils,” tweeted Arnold.
Many Kenyans wished him well in Brazil.
Sports Commissioner Gordon Oluoch described Divork’s situation as a case of ‘exported talent’ a move he says the ‘Government has to support’.
Oluoch’s sentiments were echoed by Brian Mukoyani an IT programmer in the city and Phil Etale, the Orange Democratic Movement’s Director of Communication.
“Let the young lad shine at the World Cup, after all, we shall take pride as Kenyans for having one of our very own feature at the tournament.” Etale explained.
Cases of labour crossing internationally are common nowadays. Besides Kenya are unlikely to play at the FIFA World Cup in our generation. Best of luck to him” Bernard Mukoyani said.Divork will be anticipating his debut competitive call-up when Mark Wimots charges line up to face Algerian in the opening match of group H at the FIFA World Cup in Belo Horizonte on June 17.
