Former Nigerian football star Jay-Jay Okocha, who played a key role in Nigeria’s 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory and secured a gold medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, continues to receive admiration for his football prowess.

Ex-Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Danny Murphy recently heaped praise on Okocha during an appearance on TalkSport’s “The Shortlist,” lauding him as one of the most unforgettable players of his era.

Okocha joined Bolton Wanderers from Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer in 2002 and quickly became a fan favorite at the Reebok Stadium. Known for his dazzling skills and joyful playing style, Okocha captivated audiences with his creativity on the pitch. His flair for entertainment earned him the affectionate nickname, “so good they named him twice,” and he was a regular feature on Sky Sports’ weekly skill segments.

Reflecting on his encounters with the Nigerian legend, Murphy shared a memorable experience: “He’s the only player I ever faced who embarrassed me twice in one game. First, he nutmegged me beautifully, and then, when stuck in a corner, he scooped the ball over my head and collected it on the other side. It was maddening, but he did it all with a smile on his face, playing with a freedom and creativity I could only admire.”

During his time at Bolton, Okocha made 145 appearances, scoring 18 goals and providing 10 assists. His efforts helped the club qualify for the UEFA Cup and reach the 2004 League Cup final. In 2006, Okocha left for Qatar SC before returning to England to play for Hull City in the latter stages of his career. His time at Hull, however, was marred by injuries, ultimately leading to his retirement.