Leicester City coach picks out goalkeeper Odunze for special praise after full debut for U23s

Leicester City U23 coach Steve Beaglehole reserved special praise for American-born goalkeeper of Nigerian descent Chituru Odunze following his outstanding performance on his full debut in a Premier League 2 clash against Brighton & Hove on Monday.

The Chelsea academy product was a non-playing substitute in five matches before he was handed his first start against the young Seagulls at LCFC Training Ground.

Kasey McAteer headed in from close range to give the Foxes the lead in the 29th minute and Odunze made an excellent save to prevent Weir from restoring parity before half-time when he tipped a half-volley over the bar.

In the second half, Odunze saved a powerful header from Jack Spong at point blank range and denied the visitors a winner in injury time when he spread himself to snuff out the danger.

On Odunze, Beaglehole told Leicester City's official website : "I thought he did really well, I was really pleased with him. He made a great save, when he pushed one over the bar.

"He was calm when he got the ball at his feet. He needs to improve his range of kicking, but other than that, I thought it was a really good debut from him."

Odunze has represented United States U17 and U20 national teams and trained with the senior squad last November before friendlies against Wales and Panama.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : lcfc.com