Bradford City AFC has announced with great delight the acquisition of right-back Daniel Oyegoke on a season-long loan from Premier League side Brentford. The 20-year-old Oyegoke, an England Under-20 international, recently showcased his talent at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Argentina, starting in all four matches for the Three Lions before their elimination in the last-16 stage at the hands of eventual finalists, Italy.
Oyegoke embarked on his football journey in Barnet’s academy before moving to Arsenal in 2017, and eventually finding his way to Brentford in 2021. He has represented England at various youth levels, including under-16, under-17, under-18, under-19, and under-20, where he emerged victorious in the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in 2022.
During the previous season, the talented right-back made a total of 18 appearances on loan at Sky Bet League One’s MK Dons. His impressive performances prompted his recall by Brentford, and he played a crucial role in the success of the West London club’s ‘B’ side, helping them clinch the 2022/23 Premier League Cup.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the new chapter in his career, Oyegoke stated, “Firstly, I want to thank the club for giving me this opportunity. It feels really good to have signed. I am happy to be here, and hopefully, I can make my mark towards a positive season. I am excited to get on the pitch as a Bradford City player and show the fans what I am capable of, and work towards the goals the team has.”
Discussing his discussions with the Bantams manager, Oyegoke revealed, “When speaking to the gaffer, he wants to build on last year. We need to take it to the next level and have that hunger to succeed. Hopefully, I can be a big part of that. I like to think of myself as a fast and powerful right-back. I am good defensively and hopefully, I can show people that. When I spoke to the gaffer, there was nowhere else I wanted to go. For me, where I am right now is perfect, and I want to make some good memories.”
Bradford City boss Mark Hughes expressed his satisfaction with the new addition to the squad, stating, “We are pleased to be welcoming Dan to Bradford City as our squad continues to take shape ahead of the 2023/24 season. He is a dynamic full-back with a willingness to get forward, who is showing a lot of promise at Brentford in the Premier League and impressing on the international stage at youth level with England.”
Hughes further commended Oyegoke’s valuable experience gained during his loan spell at MK Dons, emphasising his versatility and technical and physical capabilities, which he believes will significantly contribute to the team. Hughes concluded by expressing his eagerness to witness Oyegoke’s performances on the field, saying, “We are pleased to have him with us for the season and are looking forward to seeing him in action.”
With the arrival of Daniel Oyegoke, Bradford City AFC aims to fortify their squad and build on the achievements of the previous season, fueled by the young right-back’s potential and determination to succeed. Fans eagerly await his debut in the club’s colours, hopeful that his contributions will lead them to a successful campaign in the upcoming season.
