Cambridge United defender Jubril Okedina came ‘close’ to leaving the club during summer transfer window

Jubril Okedina has revealed that he came ‘close to leaving’ Cambridge United during the summer.

After starting just nine League One matches, the defender was made available for transfer at the end of the previous campaign.

However, a move never materialised and instead Okedina has gone on to be included in the starting line-up on six occasions this term – with his performances in the recent wins over Wigan Athletic and Stevenage particularly catching the eye.

Asked for his take on how the off-season unfolded, the 23-year-old: “The gaffer made it clear that he would be reinforcing in my position and we both came to an agreement that I’m at a point where I need to be playing games.

“I took it as a time for me to reflect on myself and see where I need to improve. I didn’t take it as a negative.

“I was close to leaving but when you have conversations with a manager and you work on that – I looked at myself and where I feel I needed to improve.

“Luckily the hard work allowed me to start the first game of the season (against Stockport County).

Okedina, who made his 100th start for the U’s last weekend, also believes that he is benefitting from having a boss like Garry Monk – someone that has played in the Premier League with Swansea City.

He added: “There’s been video clips on our social media platforms where you can see he’s doing one-on-one training with us. You can just go up to him and ask for any advice.

“It does make it easier when your gaffer is a defender that’s played in the Premier League and he’s got a lot of experience. I always look to him for advice.”

Okedina’s recent displays have been the source of much satisfaction for Monk, who will be looking for a third win in a row on Saturday when United play host to bottom-of-the-table Burton Albion.

And after fighting so hard to continue his career with the club, Monk has challenged the Malawi international to maintain his form.

“Jibs has got a lot of ability. With the summer, I said from the very beginning that the door wasn’t closed on Jibs. I’ve always believed that players make decisions by their actions,” he said.

“Jibs isn’t a massive talker, he isn’t one to dwell on things. He’s got enough experience now and he’s been first class.

“Like all players there’s been ups and downs within it but he’s having a really strong run in the team now. We’ve spoken about that together, he’s had an opportunity and he’s taken it.

“It’s at a stage in his career where he really needs to establish himself as a main contender. This run of games he’s definitely doing that, but the question for him to answer with his actions will be can he maintain it? He’s been excellent and I’m delighted for him.

“He’s a great lad, really good with the group and everyone loves Jibs. But he’s performing and that’s what players have to do, regardless of the decisions that get made or what conversations go on. The only person that can change your situation is you as a player and he’s proven he can do that.

“What I love about Jibs’ situation is that you’ve got two options – you’re either going to fight for it or you’ll shy away. He’s chose to fight and I think that’s always the right answer.

“Sometimes players need to be tested and then you see by their actions – and Jibs’ actions have been superb.”