Calvert-Lewin and Abraham voice World Cup hopes for Noah Okafor | OneFootball

Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Tammy Abraham have set out their hopes for close friend Noah Okafor ahead of his World Cup campaign. According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, the pair spoke in a short YouTube film about Okafor and his brothers Elijah and Isaiah, with Calvert-Lewin a part-time housemate of the Leeds winger and Abraham a former AC Milan team-mate.

Abraham said he keeps urging Okafor to take more shots rather than concentrate on assists. The Aston Villa forward praised his mentality and focus, noting he has eight goals in 28 Premier League outings this season.

Calvert-Lewin, who like Okafor returned to international duty in March but missed England selection for this summer, believes the season has primed his 26-year-old team-mate for the pressure to come. He said he is confident Okafor can handle the expectation, enjoy the stage and show what he can do, while wishing him good performances, health and enjoyment.

The Leeds number nine recalled initial training sessions at Thorp Arch when Okafor’s quick, explosive feet stood out. He felt it took a couple of weeks for decision-making to match the league’s tempo, then the winger flourished, growing in confidence and significantly improving his off-the-ball work by applying feedback.

There were setbacks as Okafor drifted in and out of the XI around January before a hamstring issue in February. Calvert-Lewin, who stays at his house once or twice a week while living in Manchester, admired his calm response, discipline in training and assurance that his chance would come, noting he has been even better since returning.

Abraham added that Okafor’s drive to prove himself should serve him well this summer. Sharing Nigerian family roots, the friends have even planned a celebration they hope to unveil at the World Cup.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk