Sunderland next big thing Joel Asoro is willing to represent the Nigerian National Team ahead of his country of birth, Sweden, according to reports.

Born in Stockholm to Nigerian parents, the offensive all-rounder has been capped by Sweden at U17 and U21 level but can still turn out for the Super Eagles ahead of the World Cup because he's not cap-tied to the Scandinavians.

''It is true that Joel has featured for Sweden at the junior levels but he is keen on playing for his fatherland,'' a top source close to Asoro told the online edition of Daily Trust.

''Although he was born and brought up in Sweden, his parents are Nigerians and he is yet to feature for Sweden at the national level.

''Joel will bring attacking options to the national team so if I have access to the national team handlers, I would ask them to give the youngster a chance to fight for shirt in the Super Eagles.

''He said he is ready to come if invited. He is also ready to fight for shirt for the 2018 World Cup.''
 
Asoro became the youngest player of Nigerian descent to debut in the English Premier League, aged 17 years and 117 days, when he came on in the 81st minute of Sunderland's 2-1 loss to Middlesbrough on August 21, 2016.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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