Jon Obika, a former striker for Tottenham, Swindon Town, and St Mirren, recently retired from his playing career to join the coaching team at Motherwell. Known for his amiable personality, Obika has been a beloved figure at St Mirren from 2019 to 2021 and now continues his journey with Motherwell. His career began with a debut for Tottenham in the UEFA Cup in November 2008 against NEC Nijmegen, and it concluded with his final appearance from the bench against Livingston in February of this year.
Now affectionately called ‘Gentleman Jon,’ Obika is diving into the world of coaching under Stuart Kettlewell’s guidance. Alongside assistant boss Stephen Frail and former teammates, Obika is adapting to his new role, embracing the digital tools that come with coaching. Reflecting on his new career path, he shared his enthusiasm for the transition, appreciating the support from the staff and players who have made his shift from playing to coaching smoother. Recording training sessions and planning strategies on his laptop are part of his new routine, a stark contrast to his days solely focused on playing football.
Obika had opportunities to continue his playing career at 33, but a conversation with Kettlewell prompted a decision to hang up his boots. The offer to transition into a coaching role resonated with him, and after thoughtful consideration, he chose to embrace this new chapter. His family, proud of his decision, supported his move. Obika revealed that he felt this path was destined, especially after booking his UEFA B Licence in December, which he began working on in the summer.
Reflecting on his career, Obika fondly remembers scoring a last-minute equalizer against Celtic, a memorable moment that delighted his teammates and fans alike. This goal, a culmination of his efforts on the pitch, symbolized the dedication and passion he brought to his playing career. Now, he channels that same dedication into guiding and mentoring the next generation of strikers at Motherwell.
Looking forward, Obika is optimistic about Motherwell’s future. He has been impressed by the team’s recent transfer activities and the promising performance of players like Moses Ebiye. From the leadership at the back with Liam Gordon to the attacking prowess of Zach Robinson, Obika believes the team is poised for great things once they hit their stride. His experiences, both on and off the pitch, equip him to provide valuable insights and support to the current squad, ensuring that Motherwell continues to thrive under his and the coaching staff’s guidance.
