Experienced attacker Tope Obadeyi joins Mark Jones’ “big rebuild”
With 112 appearances in the Football League, 77 appearances in Scotland, and 23 appearances abroad, Tope has seen it all!
The Banbury United squad is further bolstered for the upcoming season with the signing of 33-year-old winger, Tope Obadeyi. With a career spanning various leagues and countries, Obadeyi brings a wealth of experience and skill to Mark Jones' rebuild.
Born in Birmingham and having studied at Four Dwellings High School, Obadeyi formed a formidable strike partnership with former England star, Daniel Sturridge, during his early years. His talents caught the attention of Bolton Wanderers, where he made his Premier League debut as a substitute in December 2008. Obadeyi went on to earn three Premier League appearances, sharing the pitch with renowned players like Tevez, Rooney, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
During his time at Bolton, Obadeyi embarked on several loan spells in the Football League, impressing during stints at Swindon, Rochdale, Shrewsbury, and Chesterfield. Alongside the loan spells, during Tope’s stint at Bolton, he also got to link up with his school strike partner as Daniel Sturridge embarked on a loan spell from Chelsea. He then ventured to Portugal, joining Rio Ave in the Primeira Liga, where he featured prominently and scored a memorable goal against Sporting Lisbon.
Returning to England, Obadeyi had spells at Bury and Plymouth before moving north of the border to Scotland where he joined Kilmarnock, making a significant impact at Rugby Park across two seasons, accumulating 68 appearances and 18 goal contributions. He remained in Scotland for an additional season to play for the orange side of Dundee producing a goal contribution every 134 minutes while aiding United’s 12-game unbeaten run.
After three years in Scotland and showing his adaptability and thirst for new challenges, Obadeyi made a move to France, signing for FC Sochaux-Montbéliard in Ligue 2. Following his return to England and a brief return to Oldham Athletic, he joined Gloucester City in the National League North. Obadeyi's strong performances, including a crucial last-minute winner during the final game of the season, helped propel City into the play-off places.
With 112 appearances in the Football League, 77 appearances in Scotland, and 23 appearances abroad, Tope Obadeyi's arrival at Banbury United adds a wealth of experience to the squad. As Mark Jones continues his rebuilding project, Tope is the perfect for the new manager’s philosophy of a blend of youth and experience.