Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has reportedly been dropped by Serie A club Udinese from its list of registered players following an investigation into alleged betting irregularities, Afrosport reports.
Okoye is currently under investigation for betting breaches, having been alleged to have placed a bet on himself to receive a yellow card during Udinese’s 2-1 win over Lazio on 11 March 2024.
The 25-year-old actually did receive a yellow card for time-wasting in the 64th minute at Stadio Friuli with Udinese holding a 2-0 lead.
Reports also claimed that investigators raided Okoye’s house after betting agency Sisal suspiciously flagged the incident, claiming to have detected irregular gambling activities associated with the booking.
Italian authorities also believe that the scandal involves the Nigerian and Diego Giordano, the owner of a pizza restaurant, whose pizzeria is frequented by Udinese players.
Okoye has denied any allegations of wrongdoing, but the shot-stopper faces a five-year ban from football if found guilty.
The former Watford goalkeeper is currently recovering from a wrist injury and has been replaced by newly signed goalkeeper Egil Selvik in Udinese’s 25-man Serie A squad.
Okoye joined Udinese from Watford in August 2023 and has since made 37 appearances for the Italian club.
