Amkar Perm striker Bright Dike has admitted that it was a difficult choice he had to make when he was approached by the Nigeria Football Federation to represent the Super Eagles, having spent most of his life in the United States.

Born in Edmond, Oklahoma 29 years ago to Nigerian parents, Dike was eligible to represent the United States until he turned his back on the Yankees.

“It’s like choosing between mom and dad. Personally, I have been guided to those who will approach me first and this was made by Nigeria,” Bright Dike told Amkar Perm’s official website.

“I have played 3 matches basically because of injuries, but those three games were very important - friendly against Venezuela, also played against the national team of Catalonia, half of whom were players of Barcelona, such as Xavi, Pique, Puyol and played against Italy.

“Moreover, against Catalonia and Italy, I scored a goal.”

A product of Portland Timbers, Bright Dike signed a one-and-a-half-year contract with Amkar Perm in February following his release by MLS side Toronto.

Igho Kingsley