Exclusive: Arsenal Striker Chuba Akpom Left Out Of Nigeria Squad For Training Camp

Arsenal striker Chuba Akpom is unlikely to make his competitive debut for the Super Eagles when they tackle South Africa in an African Cup of Nations qualifier in June, allnigeriasoccer.com understands.

Akpom's good friend Alex Iwobi has been named in Nigeria's roster for the game in Uyo and even told to report to Corsica for training, but the Hale End Academy product, who spent the second half of this season at Brighton, has been omitted.

Born in East London, Akpom appeared for England at U16, U17, U19, U20 and U21 level before he flirted with the Super Eagles during their get-together in London last month.

The striker was called up to the national team in January 2015 for a friendly against Ivory Coast, but declined the invitation because the game fell outside Fifa's window for international matches and he hadn't made his mind up about representing Nigeria.

Akpom will celebrate his 22nd birthday in October and will no longer be eligible to represent England youth teams.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel