Daniel Oyegoke says his immediate connection with Lincoln City and the club’s supporters is driving him to give even more every time he steps onto the pitch.
The defender has quickly settled into life with the Imps following his move from Hellas Verona and was part of the City side which secured a 1-0 victory at Preston North End on Saturday.
Oyegoke has experienced football in England, Scotland and Italy during his career, but says he has rarely felt as comfortable at a club as quickly as he has at City.
He said: “It’s a special, special club and there are special, special people in the club.
“I’ve never felt this connection with a club and its fans in such a short amount of time. I’m so happy to be here.
“I’m ready to keep making every game count and get as many points as we can along the way. I’m sure we can have a special season.”
That connection is already translating into Oyegoke’s performances, with the 23-year-old relishing the defensive side of the game as much as the opportunity to contribute going forward.
He added: “I really enjoy defending. I enjoy not getting beaten. It gives me a buzz and gives me joy. I like giving stick to the other players and making them feel uncomfortable.
“That’s my game. I like to play as well, I like to dribble and create chances, but I just like to make things difficult for other people.
“The connection here makes me want to run a bit further. It makes me want to work that bit harder to stop a goal or get back to help my team-mate."
Oyegoke pointed to City’s travelling support at Preston - and their contribution to the victory as an example of the bond.
He said: “The fans came out in their numbers and it was crazy to have that support. At times the home fans were so quiet and our fans were making themselves known and bringing the noise.
“It was amazing to have them there. You want to go out, make them happy and give them something back.”
The defender also revealed the impression City made on him before he had even arrived at the ProAmpac Stadium.
Oyegoke first became aware of the Imps’ interest a couple of weeks before completing his move on deadline day, with conversations about the club’s direction convincing him that Lincoln was the right destination.
He added: “When I got on the call with everyone from the club, it was clear for me. It was the best call I’ve ever had and the best conversation I’ve had with football people about football, the direction the club is going and what kind of club it is.
“You can see there are brilliant people inside and around it, so it was a no-brainer for me.”
