Okan Alkan

Okan Alkan (born 1 October 1992) is a Turkish professional footballer who plays as a right back or right winger. A product of Fenerbahçe's youth system, he made his professional debut on 29 August 2010. At international level, he played for various Turkey youth national teams. before moving to Mardinspor for a fee of 10,000 TL in September 2006, where he won a call-up to the Turkey U-15 squad in 2007. Originally a winger on both sides, Alkan converted to right back, where he has drawn comparisons to Fenerbahçe and Turkish international, Gökhan Gönül. Alkan also began training with the senior team at the same time. One day, after a training session, Alkan was pulled aside by Roberto Carlos, who praised the youngsters potential, but also pointed out weaknesses he must improve upon. Roberto Carlos compared Alkan to his former Brazil teammate, Cafu. Gökhan Gönül has also helped tutor the youngster. Alkan explained in an interview with TFF.org that he and Gönül sit down after training to discuss what Alkan needs to do to improve his game. Quote_box|

No, (Aykut) told me I would play yesterday. He told me "play the way you play, I believe in you". This helped me concentrate and I thank my manager for giving me the chance. — Okan Alkan Manager Aykut Kocaman praised Alkan's performance after the match and said he was very pleased.

Alkan started on the right wing for Fenerbahçe in the Cumhuriyet Kupası (Republic Cup) against Sivasspor, with the team winning 3–0. The cup was a friendly match played during the international break. Erdal Güçükkara replaced Alkan in the 62nd minute of the match after Alkan suffered an injury. Alkan also started at right back for the third round matchup against Kayserispor in place of the injured Gönül. Alkan played the entire 90 minutes in a 2–0 loss. After Gönül's return, Alkan was sent back to the A2 team, making his second A2 appearance in a 3–1 win over Güngören Belediyespor.

Alkan made his Turkish Cup debut in a 2–1 loss to TFF Second League club Yeni Malatyaspor, putting the ball past his own keeper in the 23rd minute.

Alkan moved to Kayserispor on a two-year loan after Serdar Kesimal was transferred to Fenerbahçe. His loan deal was terminated after one year and he moved to Bucaspor on a free transfer. and then played the entirety of the second match. A year later, Alkan was called up to the U-16 squad, making one appearance for the squad. In September 2008, Alkan was called up to the Turkey U-17 team. In a match against the Malta U-17s, Alkan came on as a substitute in the 41st minute and contributed two assists. Alkan cites this performance as one of the turning points in his career. Alkan was also selected for the U-18 squad five times in 2009, but was not capped. Alkan was promoted to the U-19 team in 2010.

Personal life Alkan has five brothers and one sister. In his free time he enjoys playing table tennis, billiards, and PlayStation.

Career statistics

Honours Fenerbahçe Süper Lig: 2010–11