Former AC Milan goalkeeping coach Luigi Turci has warned Nigeria international Maduka Okoye that he must deliver more consistent performances to retain his position as Udinese’s first-choice goalkeeper.

The Nigerian shot-stopper has come under scrutiny following a difficult start to the campaign, having conceded 13 goals in his first six matches.

Okoye’s performances have drawn criticism, particularly after his costly error in Udinese’s Serie A encounter against Torino on Monday, which allowed the visitors to secure a 2-1 victory.

The Super Eagles goalkeeper came off his line to deal with a long ball but collided with teammate Nicolò Bertola, leaving Sandro Kulenović with the opportunity to score the decisive goal.

Udinese head coach Kosta Runjaic subsequently criticised the communication breakdown between the goalkeeper and defender, describing the incident as a significant mistake that cost his team points.

Beyond the pitch, Okoye has also attracted public attention following viral dating rumours linking him with models and celebrities.

However, Turci believes the goalkeeper should not automatically lose his starting position because of one costly error, insisting that confidence remains essential for players in his position.

Speaking to Messaggero Veneto about whether Okoye should start Udinese’s next match against Lecce, the former goalkeeping coach argued that dropping him simply as punishment would serve little purpose.

“Because after a mistake like that, there's no point in holding a goalkeeper to punish him,” Turci said.

“Looking at it from the outside, Okoye must have the utmost confidence and be the starting player against Lecce, provided he's calm, something Brunner and Marcon, who coach him, will evaluate.”

Despite backing the Nigeria international to retain his place, Turci stressed that the goalkeeper must justify the confidence placed in him with reliable performances over time.

“It's also clear that credit has a deadline, and he has to earn his keep, because if you don't provide guarantees in the long run, there's nothing written in the contract that says you can't be replaced,” he added.

Okoye joined Udinese from Watford in August 2023 and remains under contract with the Italian club until June 30, 2028.

With pressure mounting following his recent performances, the goalkeeper will need to respond positively as Udinese prepare for their next Serie A fixture against Lecce. Turci’s comments underline the balance between maintaining a goalkeeper’s confidence after a mistake and demanding the consistency required to remain the club’s undisputed first choice.