Nigeria Super Eagles icon Jay Jay Okocha believes that Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher would never appreciate African Football given the kind of football he played during his time.
Nigerian football legend Jay Jay Okocha has publicly blasted Liverpool icon Jamie Carragher over his recent comments belittling the African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In a viral video, Okocha responded to Carragher’s remarks during a Sky Sports broadcast.
 "Nigerian legend Okocha roasts Carragher after AFCON disrespect — 'You Won’t Want Your Son to Be Like Him!' 1")
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 "Nigerian legend Okocha roasts Carragher after AFCON disrespect — 'You Won’t Want Your Son to Be Like Him!' 2")
Okocha came to the defence of his compatriot over Gasperini’s recent comments
Carragher had suggested that AFCON is not considered a major tournament, which could impact Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or.
Okocha began by stating that some players’ comments can be overlooked based on their careers and the type of football they played.
Former Nigeria and Super Eagles skipper Jay Jay Okocha believes Carragher did not have the style to understand African football.
“There are some players that will say something and you just overlook them,” he began. “If you look at their careers, the type of football that they played, you can understand.”
He then took a more personal jab at Carragher, saying, “You won’t want your son to be like [Jamie] Carragher.”
Carragher scoffed at the statement that AFCON is a major tournament.
This comment was aimed at Carragher’s playing style and career, implying that he lacks the finesse and appreciation for African football.
Okocha concluded that Carragher could never truly appreciate African football or the talents emerging from the continent.
Jay Jay Okocha speaking in the video.
“He can never appreciate African football or the talents that come from Africa,” he added.
Okocha’s response is part of a broader backlash against Carragher’s comments, with other notable figures like Mikel Obi and Micah Richards also defending AFCON as a major tournament.
AFCON title. (Photo Credit: CAF)
Mikel Obi, a former Super Eagles captain and AFCON winner, emphasised that AFCON is on the same level as the Euros and Champions League, highlighting its significance in inspiring generations of African players.
The debate has sparked a heated discussion about the recognition and respect given to African football competitions globally.
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