Frank Onyeka made an instant impact on his Coventry City debut as the Sky Blues returned to the top of the Championship table with a 3-1 win over Middlesbrough at the Coventry Building Society Arena.
The Nigerian midfielder slotted straight into the starting XI and delivered a commanding display that caught the eye of manager Frank Lampard.
Frank Onyeka shines on Coventry debut in Championship
All eyes were on Onyeka before kick-off following his winter loan move from Brentford. The Super Eagles midfielder did not disappoint.
Operating in central midfield, Onyeka brought energy, strength and discipline to Coventry’s shape.
He pressed with purpose, recovered possession quickly and helped set the tempo in key moments.
His performance provided balance behind the attacking threat of Haji Wright, who grabbed a hat-trick on the night.
Lampard was full of praise for Onyeka after the final whistle. Speaking to BBC Coventry & Warwickshire, he said:
“Yes, absolutely. It was brilliant. His performance, his power in winning the ball, his quality of understanding when to jump and press, and what he’s like in duels, but also his quality of play.”
Lampard hails Onyeka’s outstanding debut
Despite being booked 27 minutes into the game for a late challenge on Aidan Morris, Onyeka maintained his composure and influence.
The caution did little to slow his momentum as he continued to dominate midfield battles.
Lampard revealed he briefly considered whether fatigue might become a factor but was impressed with how the midfielder handled the intensity of the contest.
“An outstanding debut. To come from the Premier League and step up to this level of game so quickly in his career, to make his debut in that game and perform as he did, was a great sign. I am really pleased for him,” Lampard added.
The performance will obviously strengthen Onyeka’s case for a regular starting role as Coventry push for promotion.
His loan move from Brentford includes an obligation to buy if the Sky Blues secure a return to the Premier League.
For now, Coventry City sit proudly at the summit of the Championship, and Onyeka has already shown he could play a key role in their promotion charge.