Odada has followed in Victor Wanyama's footsteps when he left Belgium for Celtic by joining Scottish top-flight side Dundee United
Harambee Stars midfielder Richard Odada has explained why he he opted to join Dundee United on a permanent basis from Philadelphia Union following a loan-spell in Denmark last season.
Odada has found it difficult to settle since launching his professional career at Red Star Belgrade in 2019. He was subjected to two separate loans while in Serbia, and never got into the team while at Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer.
He did get some consistent minutes for Aalborg in the Danish second division last year, but the latter stages of his career at the club was kind of complicated, being relegated to being an impact sub.
![Gor Mahia's Austin Odhiambo dedicates FKFPL Most Valuable Player award to injured mother](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/27072024/818e7ac5-dbb8-43ce-ad2d-67846b673048.jpg?operations=fit(180:))
12:39 - 27.07.2024
Gor Mahia's Austin Odhiambo dedicates FKFPL Most Valuable Player award to injured mother
Odhiambo's mother was involved in an unfortunate accident on Thursday -the day before receiving his MVP award - but is recuperating well according to the player.
However, he has opted for a fresh start in the Scottish first division for Dundee United, making him the other Kenyan international playing in the league, alongside Jonah Ayunga.
The new number 12 for the Tangerines has now revealed his plans for the side, opening up on the reasons he chose them as the next step for his development.
"It feels nice to be wearing this shirt. As soon as I heard there was interest at the end of the season, I just said 'make it happen!' to my agent," Odada revealed.
"The demands placed on the team both by the fans and ourselves as players are exciting - it's a mentality I'm happy to work with. I'm looking forward to working hard and giving my best for the club, fans, and my teammates. I'm here to push us on to achieving our goals for the season."
![CONFIRMED: Nyayo Stadium to host Gor Mahia, Kenya Police preliminary CAF competitions, but remain closed for Harambee Stars](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/27072024/ba86ab57-772a-4a6c-a601-d9f5b27f8a4b.jpg?operations=fit(180:))
10:30 - 27.07.2024
CONFIRMED: Nyayo Stadium to host Gor Mahia, Kenya Police preliminary CAF competitions, but remain closed for Harambee Stars
Nyayo Stadium has been approved for use by Kenya Police and Gor Mahia for their preliminary Champions League and Confederation Cup matches, but will not be used for Harambee Stars' AFCON qualifiers this September.
Odada also reflected on the challenges he has faced in his career so far and the mindset he maintains. “Sometimes, it is difficult. That is how life is but when you get your opportunities, you have to leave the rest to God,” he said.
“It is something I was looking forward to when I went to Aalborg. I had a great opportunity there. Sometimes things are down and it may not always be perfect but that is life. We have to strive to compete and always give our best. I am here to compete."
Odada emphasized the motivational environment at Dundee United. “They are pushing the team and individuals and it gives me morale to push, not just for myself, but for the fans and the club.”
The midfielder also credited his national team experience with helping him grow as a player.
![Harambee Stars midfielder Richard Odada unveiled in Scotland](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/26072024/5265f2d7-a56e-42cf-aa20-d2bfcd14c3c7.jpg?operations=fit(180:))
20:49 - 26.07.2024
Harambee Stars midfielder Richard Odada unveiled in Scotland
Richard Odada has joined Scottish Premiership side from Philadelphia Union on a long term deal.
“I got the experience from playing for the national team because it gives you a chance to compete with the best players around the world. It pushes you and also you want to continue pushing.”
With a positive mindset and determination, Odada is ready to make his mark at Dundee United and help the team achieve its goals for the season.