Brian Idowu On Standby For Only Argentina, Father Not Forcing Him To Represent Nigeria

The Nigeria Football Federation have confirmed that Amkar Perm defender Brian Idowu is not in contention to be fielded against Algeria in a World Cup qualifier next week Friday, but could face Argentina in a friendly on November 14.

Born in St. Petersburg, Russia to a Nigerian father and a Russian mom with dual nationality, Idowu can suit up for the three-time African champions if the grandfather rule is invoked.

The Nigerian Federation stated via their official webpage : ''Russia -based Brian Idowu has been placed on standby only for the friendly with Argentina.

''2013 AFCON winner Kenneth Omeruo is on standby for both matches, alongside former junior international Alhassan Ibrahim, who now plays in Austria.''

Whilst Brian Idowu earlier stated that he won't reject a call-up to the Super Eagles if invited by the Nigerian Federation, the new development is that he has been advised by his Russian coach to keep his options open.

''I don't know myself which country I want to play for at the moment. But if I get a call up to the Super Eagles, I will honour the invitation,'' Idowu told allnigeriasoccer.com.

''I am half-Nigerian, half-Russian. My father is not forcing me to play for Nigeria, he supports any decision I make.''

Brian Idowu's mother hails from Imo State, South Eastern Nigeria.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : fc-amkar.org