Nigerian Players With Dual Nationality Aina, Akpom, Ejaria Will Not Be Forced To Represent England

England coach Gareth Southgate has insisted that he won’t force players who have dual nationality to represent the Three Lions, stating that they should be honoured to wear the England jersey without persuasion.

In the last few days, the Nigeria Football Federation have held talks with Arsenal striker Chuba Akpom, Chelsea defender Ola Aina, Sunderland’s Josh Maja and QPR starlet Eze over committing their international future to the Super Eagles, while the progress of Ovie Ejaria at Liverpool is being monitored.

And it appears the leadership of the Federation was successful in the approach, with Akpom, Aina and Eze training with the national team in London this week.

“In the end I have to focus on players who are desperate to play for England. I’m not aware those sorts of players are wanting to play for England or not really..., ” Southgate said.

“I didn’t get capped until I was 25 and I had no interest in playing for anyone else. I’m English and proud to be English and I think part of your identity as a national team has to be pride in the shirt.

 “So for me the commitment has to come from the player.”

Everton’s Ross Barkley and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Dele Alli were eligible to play for the Super Eagles before they became cap-tied to England.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : thenff.com