Noah Okafor's Determination to Shine at Leeds United

Noah Okafor did not need long on the pitch to make his point.

Nineteen minutes against Manchester United in a pre-season friendly were enough to mark the Leeds United forward’s first outing of the summer, his first steps back after a World Cup that left a sour taste.

The Switzerland international only rejoined training last week, his break extended after his country’s run to the quarter-finals. The body was rested. The mind, not so much.

“It was amazing to be back with the team on the pitch,” he told BBC Radio Leeds, the relief obvious. “I was really happy to be back and now we just have to keep building, working and looking forward day by day.”

For Okafor, this is familiar territory. He spoke about slipping straight back into his natural rhythm.

“That's the game I play, the game I used to play,” he said. “I need a few more days to work on my fitness... then when it starts I am ready.”

The contrast with his summer could not be sharper. While Switzerland pushed deep into the tournament, Okafor barely featured. Just 19 minutes, all as a substitute. For a player who arrived at the World Cup on the back of a strong club season, it stung.

“The World Cup was not so good for me because I didn't play so much. The coach didn't let me play, I don't know why because I did really great,” he admitted. “I came with a lot of confidence, I did an amazing season but in the end he just decides like this.”

That frustration now fuels him. He has parked it, at least outwardly, and turned his focus back to Elland Road.

“Now I keep it to the side,” he said. “So just focus on Leeds. Give every day 100% in training and this season help the team again like last season.”

Last season’s numbers underline why he felt he deserved more on the international stage: eight goals and one assist in 28 Premier League appearances, a solid return for a forward still adapting to English football.

Now he wants more. A lot more.

“I am even more hungry than last season,” Okafor said. “I adapted more in the Premier League and adapted to the team. The most important thing is to stay healthy and fit, keep every day with a smile and try to help the team with goals and assists.”

Leeds have their forward back, sharper in his resolve than when he left. The World Cup may have sidelined him, but this season gives him exactly what he wants: a chance to answer with performances, not complaints.