MIPO'S TIME HAS ARRIVED

Well-travelled Odubeko hits Europe

- By MARK McCADDEN

WHEN he dreamed of playing Champions League football, a young Mipo Odubeko likely had visions of running out in the group stages in the blue of Manchester City or the red of United.

But after spells with City, United, West Ham, Portuguese side Maritimo and Fleetwood Town, as well as loans to Huddersfield, Doncaster and Port Vale, the Dubliner's Champions League journey finally begins back in his hometown.

Shelbourne's return to Europe's premier competition, after a 20-year absence, presents Odubeko (22) with a chance to shine.

An opportunity to show the potential that once had the biggest clubs scrambling for him can be fulfilled.

Plenty of people in the game have had their say on this talented youngster over the course of his career so far.

Shels' new boss Joey O'Brien was the latest, when asked yesterday about Odubeko.

"He's been good. In the last few games he's been really, really good," said O'Brien.

"A lot of our players, in the last few weeks, have played really well, and he's one of them.

"When he is on it, he's a handful, sometimes he can be unplayable. So hopefully he is that over this tie."