JAY Jay Okocha would roll out the red carpet if Wanderers could come up with the cash to tempt Julius Aghahowa to the Reebok.

The Nigerian captain believes his fellow countryman - only 20 but regarded as one of the best strikers in African football - could make a name for himself in the Premiership.

Not only that, he reckons Aghahowa, famous for his back flip goal celebration, would jump at the chance of coming to Bolton.

"He might be a Bolton fan now," Okocha said, reflecting on continuing speculation that his sidekick in the Super Eagles squad could be a target for Sam Allardyce when the transfer window opens in January.

The Wanderers' boss has confirmed an interest in Aghahowa, who plays his football in the Ukraine with Shakhtar Donetsk. Indeed, the young Nigerian might already be on the Bolton books if Donetsk had not blocked a loan deal because of their involvement in the UEFA Cup. Okocha is convinced there is a wealth of talent in Africa - and specifically in Nigeria - that offers rich pickings for Premiership clubs willing to take a chance.

And in Aghahowa's case he could provide the link that would give Wanderers the pick of the bunch.

"He is still young and he can only get better," Okocha said. "He would like to come and play here and I would like him to come and play.

"He's in darkness ... nobody is following the Ukrainian league!"

Okocha remains a powerful influence in Nigerian football after being persuaded by his team-mates, fans and members of his national federation not to retire after the World Cup.

"I wanted to quit but they made it clear that was not possible," he explains.

"I made my points clear that a lot of things would have to change and they are improving so maybe I will hang in there.

"I still keep in touch with all the players - I am still the captain."