Highly-Rated Brentford Winger Commits International Future To Nigeria Over Ireland

Published: May 28, 2018

Promising Brentford winger Chiedozie Ogbene has committed his international future to Nigeria over the Republic of Ireland where he was raised.

Born in Nigeria, Ogbene is an Irish citizen having moved to the Republic of Ireland thirteen years ago when his dad got a job in the country, and he has revealed that he has not yet been approached by the two Federations but his heart lies with the Super Eagles.

''My family comes from Nigeria, it’s in our blood and it’s where I spent the early part of my life,'' Ogbene said to The 42.

''A lot of people tell me that I grew up in Ireland and that’s important, which it really is. I know that too and I’m not burning any bridges.

''I have to be honest too, because I may never be good enough to play with Nigeria or Ireland anyway — I still have to prove myself.

''We’ll see what happens if any opportunity comes, but I’m just being up front now in saying that playing for Nigeria is what I’d prefer.

''I love Ireland and my nationality is Irish, but playing for Nigeria is my dream. ''

The 21-year-old Ogbene joined Brentford on a three-and-a-half-year deal in the January transfer window, and three months later he made his debut in the Championship against Nottingham Forest.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : brentfordfc.com