Ilkeston Town are delighted to announce the signing of Daniel Odunaiya.
The 22-year-old joins from United Counties League Premier Division North side Belper United, where he sits as the clubs’ top goal scorer so far in the 2025/26 season, boasting 16 goals in all competitions.
Odunaiya will return to Belper United for a short period of time on dual registration, to aid in his progression and so that he continues to get minutes under his belt and hopefully continue in his goal scoring form.
Talking on his reasons behind joining the Robins, Odunaiya said: “So I used to play for Long Eaton Community FC, with Mitch [Leivers] who I recognised, as he was the keeper there at the time, and then, Deaks [Ian Deakin] of course worked there.
“I know how he is as a manager, and of course he watched me play from time to time, so it stemmed from their really. So, yes, I decided that the next best step for me was to join Ilkeston Town, and now I am just eager to go out and see what I can do.”
Described as a clinical striker, Odunaiya boasts a towering threat in attack and has featured for a plethora of clubs within Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and Leicestershire.
“There’s been quite a few”, Odunaiya stated. “From Long Eaton [Community FC) I joined Leicester Nirvana to try and find myself, and things did go well there.
“I ended up moving to Hucknall Town after, and from there I had a bit of a drop off – I went on to join Dunkirk, but then I managed to revive myself a little bit and got a move to Belper United.
“I was able to score 21 goals in 2025, and now that 2026 is here, and with a lot of games to come, I’m ready to go.”
The striker sets high targets for himself, wanting to demonstrate his determination and eagerness every time he steps on the pitch.
“At the beginning of the season, I gave myself a target of 20 goals for the year, and right now I am on 16 with quite a few matches left to go – so, hopefully, I am able to reach 20, and once I am there, I can push for 25 or 30”, Odunaiya outlined.
Welcome to the Microlise New Manor Ground, Daniel!