New York City FC manager Patrick Vieira has heaped praise on Ghana international Ebenezer Ofori following a brilliant performance on his Major League Soccer debut against New England Revolution last week, which ended in a 2-2 draw.
The 22-year-old, who joined the Pigeons on loan from Bundesliga side Stuttgart last February, impressed the club's faithful and the former Arsenal captain who couldn't hide his admiration.
''He showed a lot of experience [in the Major League Soccer game]. He was really calm on the ball,'' Vieira told his club's website.
''Defensively, I think he helped the team a lot. When a player gives everything to the team this is the minimum that I ask. I think “Eben” was really good for us and he will be a really important player for us,'' he added.
Ofori was on the books of Ghana Premier League side New Edubiase before completing a move to AIK Stockholm in 2013.
He is expected to start against San Jose Earthquakes on Sunday as New York continue their push to avoid relegation this season.