England Overtake Nigeria, Ireland In Race For The Services Of Arsenal Whizkid

The English Football Association has leapfrogged Nigeria and Republic of Ireland Federations in the race for the services of Arsenal wonderkid Armstrong Okoflex.

The Gunners U18 striker cum winger was invited to England U16s squad for the recent 2018 UEFA Development Tournament, where the Young Lions faced Scotland, Spain and Denmark.

Okoflex was born in Ireland but can represent the Nigerian national teams through his parents, who moved to Republic of Ireland more than two decades ago.

It was thought the Irish were in pole position for his services, with the player admitting at the start of this season that he's more connected to Ireland as he was born there.

''Ireland is where I’m from but England is financially better and the grounds are amazing. I enjoy playing with both but obviously I’m Irish so I feel the connection with them,'' Okoflex told Irish Times.

''Nigerian players born in Dublin should be given more opportunities to play with Ireland if they’re good enough. Diversity is very important in football.

''The best nations have a mixture, not just white or black players. This is what Ireland can improve on.''

Armstrong Okoflex was one of the standout players for the Republic of Ireland at the 2017 Victory Shield tournament in Northern Ireland.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : instagram.com/armstrong_100