Scotland’s Kante? Livi star Omeonga pleased fate was kinder to boss
Stephane Omeonga is delighted that Livingston boss David Martindale has beaten the curse of Kante.
The midfielder believes he has met the ideal manager at the right time in his career.
Martindale recently said the 25-yearold was Scottish football’s answer to France and Chelsea star, N’golo Kante.
“The last person who said that was sacked one week later,” laughed Omeonga.
“I remember Neil Lennon said that on the first day I joined Hibs.
“But I like Livingston. I like the work we’re doing here, I like the staff and the people at the club. It’s smaller than I’ve known before, but the atmosphere is great.
“It’s the first time I’ve had a manager so intense. But that’s what I needed.
“I see this as the second phase of my career, and I want Livingston to be the first part of that journey.”
The Belgian-born player had two loan spells at Hibs while playing in Italy with Genoa. He returned to try his luck in Serie A with Pescara last year, but admits that wasn’t a happy experience.
“I wanted to go back to Italy because, five years ago, I played 30 games in Serie B and liked it. I wanted to give Italian football another chance, but it didn’t go so well.
“We weren’t winning many games, changed manager three or four times over the season, and got relegated. So I
wanted a change, and that’s why I came back to Scotland.
“I wanted to get my fitness back. Playing games is the best way to do it, and I think I just fit in Scottish football.
“Since I came here, I think I’ve shown good things, and have more to give.
“People overlook Scottish football. It’s not easy at all, and not everyone can come here and be good.
“I remember Charly Musonda, I played with him when I was young and when he was at Anderlecht, he was the best young player I’ve ever seen.
“But he didn’t make it here. It’s a
tough league, and I think it’s even tougher than it was two years ago.”
Having enjoyed his time at Easter Road, Omeonga says there’s no way he could ever play for Hearts, who Livingston entertain today.
When it was suggested to him, he replied: “No chance. Millions and millions no chance. “I’m taking this game as a Livi player and I want to win it – but maybe just a little bit more.”
Hearts will have former Livingston centre- back Craig Halkett making a retur n to Almondvale this afternoon, and Lions’ boss David Martindale isn’t surprised the Jambos are in talks to extend the 26- yearold’s contract.
He said: “I still keep in touch
with Halks, and he’s one of those players that you wish nothing but success.
“You’re actually happy he’s left the club, but in a positive way. He went with our blessing.
“Craig is the one I expected to kick on and get called up for Scotland. He’s got his own personality and he leads by example.
“He trains every day like it’s his last. He’s got a point to prove, and that’s the way he lives his life.
“He’s got a natural ability in any sport. If you go bowling, Halkett pulls out his bowling ball. If it’s snooker, Halkett pulls out a snooker cue.
“Golf? I don’t know what he hits off now, but I am sure he was around a three or four handicap. He’s just one of those naturally-gifted sportsmen.
“He could probably have gone on to do a few things in his life. But he eats, sleeps and breathes football. He is the ultimate professional.”