Opoku spoke to two players before making decision to sign for Cobblers

The 25-year-old signed for Cobblers from Leicester City on a three-year deal last week, but it was way back in early July when Chris Hogg first expressed an interest in the striker’s services.

“It wasn’t a surprise when it happened because it had been going on since the start of pre-season when we played against Northampton in a friendly,” explained Opoku, who is clear to play against Gillingham on Saturday after his work permit came through. “Russell Martin made jokes about how this was the team that wanted to sign me!

“So I knew about it early and I knew the manager here wanted me. I had to wait but, as a player, you just have to focus on your job on the pitch, stay fit and then leave it to the people at the top, and now I’m really excited to join and be part of the project.”

Opoku is the fourth player to leave Leicester for Northampton over the last 12 months or so, following Joe Wormleighton, Logan Briggs and Jake Evans.

“Northampton obviously got relegated to League Two last season but I know this is a good club,” added the Ghanian youth international. “I know Logan well and I knew Wormy from when we played at Leicester together.

“I spoke to those boys and they were really positive and I knew I was coming into a good group and that it’s a nice project. I’ve settled in really well, I’m looking for a place, and now I’m very excited to go to work and get on the pitch.”

On Hogg’s part in the move, Opoku said: “I spoke to the manager on the phone and straightaway I could tell he was a good person. He was upfront and he was very detailed in terms of what he wanted. I like managers who are detailed and make it clear what they want from you.

“He showed videos of me playing and how I can fit into the team and there were a lot of positives. I like to stay central as a striker and I love to score goals. I think I was the right fit and I can see myself flourishing in this team, that’s why I made the decision to come to Northampton.”

Now 25 and over two years on from suffering a horrific leg break, Opoku is ready to kick-on.

“This is a big deal for me,” he admitted. “I had a good start in Belgium but then I picked a big injury and I haven’t felt myself since. But this summer is the first time where I feel I’m really back to my best in terms of my fitness and my energy and I’m excited to see what I can produce and help the team.”