LONDON, England – The Republic of Ireland forward left Rotherham United and joined on a free transfer. Chiedozie Ogbene, a forward for the Republic of Ireland, has been recruited by Luton Town ahead of their inaugural Premier League campaign.

When his contract with Rotherham United, who were demoted from the Championship last season, expires on July 1, Ogbene will become a free agent and sign with Luton.

In all competitions last season, he contributed four assists to his nine goals. 

Ogbene, a Nigerian native, was the first African athlete to play for the Republic of Ireland. He has 15 international appearances and four goals to his credit.

In a formal statement posted on the website of his new club, Chiedozie Ogbene conveyed his joy at joining the Premier League. Ogbene acknowledged the rarity of such an accomplishment, as his old coach had rated it one in 200,000, as he thought back on his journey from Limerick FC in the League of Ireland to Luton Town FC in the highest division of English football. He expressed gratitude for the chance and his willingness to join the Premier League and realize the dream shared by numerous football players.

Rob Edwards, the manager of Luton, praised Ogbene highly and cited his outstanding efforts as Luton prepared to take on Rotherham. Edwards identified Ogbene as Rotherham’s most important and dangerous player. He was naturally on Luton’s radar for potential recruitment because the team had made great attempts to counteract his effect during game planning. Edwards stressed the importance of athleticism in the Premier League and recognized Ogbene’s aptitude for making good use of his physicality. Ogbene’s adaptability was also emphasized by Edwards, who said that he could play as a centre forward or a wide attacker, giving Luton’s offense tactical options.

When describing Ogbene’s personality, Edwards praised his modesty and said that his successful upbringing and unrelenting labor were the reasons for his accomplishments. Edwards was proud to have given Ogbene the chance to compete at the top level after acknowledging the significance of his success in getting a chance in the Premier League.

On the opening weekend of the season, which is set for Saturday, August 12th, when Luton plays Brighton & Hove Albion, Ogbene hopes to make his Premier League debut.