France Ahead Of Nigeria, England In Race For Ex-Chelsea Youth Team Playmaker

Published: May 27, 2019

Highly-rated Reading FC midfielder Michael Olise is poised to make his international debut early next month after receiving a call-up to the French national team for the prestigious 2019 Toulon Tournament.

The former Chelsea youth-teamer has opted to represent France at the tournament though he is eligible to turn out for the Young Lions as well as Nigeria, who have not made an approach for his services.

It was only a matter of time before Olise would earn international recognition following his outstanding season for the Royals.

The 17-year-old was the only player to represent Reading U18s, U23s and first team in the recently concluded season and was awarded the Academy Player of the Year at the end of season awards.

A first year scholar at Reading last term, the playmaker has made four appearances for the first team since debuting against Leeds United back in March.

France U18s will face Qatar, Brazil and Guatemala in the group stage of the Toulon Tournament.

Another player of Nigerian descent, Temitope Akinjogunla represents France at U17 level and became provisionally cap-tied to the Little Blues when he started against Serbia in the U17 EURO qualifiers two months ago.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : readingfc.co.uk