Chiedozie Ogbene says he is having to bide his time at Lincoln City as he works towards rediscovering his best form.
The winger was speaking after the Republic of Ireland’s disappointing Nations League opener against Kosovo, reflecting on a performance he felt fell below the standards the squad had set themselves. Ogbene was critical of his own contribution, having failed to make the most of one of Ireland’s few chances.
Ireland opened their campaign with a 1-0 defeat in Kosovo, where Vedat Muriqi scored the only goal in the 83rd minute. The striker converted after his initial effort struck the crossbar, with the goal standing following a VAR check. Ogbene had already departed by that stage, coming off on the hour to be replaced by former Imp Jack Moylan as Ireland searched for a breakthrough.
However, he refused to use the poor pitch as an excuse, pointing out that Kosovo had been able to get the ball down and play on the same surface. When asked about his lack of regular club football, he acknowledged that our strong start had left him needing to be patient as he builds his minutes.
“Listen, I moved to Lincoln. They’re doing really well in the league, so I have to kind of bide my time. I’ve been coming off the bench, I’ve started a few games, so I’m just building minutes, trying to catch my rhythm and be in the best form of my life again, like I was.
“I’m hoping that will come sooner rather than later.”
Ogbene joined us on loan from Ipswich Town until January and has been working his way into the side, making his first league start in our win at Bristol City. He had a chance saved early in the second half at Ashton Gate, before Freddie Draper scored the only goal as we secured a second successive away victory.
He was back among the substitutes against Swansea City, coming on as part of the triple change as we chased an equaliser. His comments suggest he recognises the competition for places, with the immediate aim to build enough rhythm to show the form he knows he is capable of producing.
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