Former Black Stars goalkeeper George Owu has revealed that his dream move to English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur slipped away due to his unexpected exclusion from the 2010 World Cup squad.
The former Asante Kotoko shot-stopper revealed that he had the chance to secure a two-week trial with Tottenham, with the condition for a permanent move hinging on his inclusion in the 2010 World Cup squad.
However, fate dealt him a different hand as coach Milovan Rajevac opted for Stephen Arholu and Daniel Adjei as backups to Richard Kingson, leaving Owu out of the squad.
“I got a chance at Tottenham for a two-week trial, so if I had made the 2010 World Cup squad, I would have signed for Tottenham Hotspur,” Owu lamented on Dan Kweku Yeboah TV. The competition for the goalkeeping slots, coupled with the impressive performances of Arholu and Adjei, ultimately led to Owu missing out on the opportunity of a lifetime.
Reflecting on the experience at Tottenham, Owu shared glimpses of his impressive performance during the trial period, where he had the opportunity to train with notable players like Gareth Bale. Despite making a positive impression, the failure to secure a spot in the 2010 World Cup squad dashed his hopes of securing a permanent move to the Premier League powerhouse.
“I was on trial at Tottenham for two weeks, and they were greatly impressed. I saw the likes of Bale and others. It was a big opportunity for me, but because I couldn’t make the squad, they didn’t sign me. I had to come home and start at Ashgold,” Owu revealed.
The revelation provides a poignant insight into the unpredictable nature of football careers and the fine margins that can determine life-changing opportunities for players on the global stage.
Leave a comment