Onuoha shocked at Persebaya passion

QPR centre-back Nedum Onuoha said he was surprised with the buzz generated by Persebaya Surabaya’s fans in a pre-season friendly.

Adel Taarabt and Bobby Zamora secured victory for the English Premier League side as they came from behind to overcome their Indonesian opponents 2-1, after conceding the opening goal to Fernando Soler in their final fixture of their tour of Asia.

Onuoha admitted the atmosphere in the stadium was the best he has ever played in, as about 55,000 supporters showed their support.

“It was incredible from the moment we left the hotel to make our way to the ground, but the atmosphere inside the stadium itself was unreal,” Onuoha told the club’s official website.

“That’s the best atmosphere I’ve ever played in. It wasn’t intimidating, because they were friendly in their manner and just really wanted to support their team.

“It wasn’t really hostile, just incredibly loud, passionate and exciting.

“It’s great to see how passionate the fans are out here and that’s one thing that has really hit home throughout this tour.”

The 25-year-old defender also insisted that his first visit to Asia has become one of the more memorable moments of his life.

“I won’t forget this trip for a long, long while. Some of the things I’ve seen and heard will stay with me forever,” he added.

“The passion that the Asian fans have for football is incredible, and that was epitomised by the Indonesian people last night.”

Mark Hughes’ men are scheduled to head back to London on Tuesday after their 12-day Asian tour.