England One Game Away From Locking Up International Future Of Super Eagles Target Saka

The English Football Association are on the brink of beating Nigeria to the services of versatile Arsenal left-back Bukayo Saka, allnigeriasoccer.com reports.

The London-born starlet of Nigerian parentage was introduced off the bench in the 38 minute as a replacement for the injured Ben Chilwell as England suffered a 2-0 loss to Belgium in a UEFA Nations League clash at the King Power at Den Dreef Stadion (Heverlee) on Sunday night.

In doing so, the 19-year-old took his total appearances for the Three Lions to three since his senior debut in a friendly against Wales last month.

Although Saka has made his competitive debut for his country of birth, he is not tied to the European nation permanently as he is an U21 player, based on the new FIFA eligibility rule.

According to the new rules, players can switch national teams but only if they meet five conditions; playing not more than three games with their first national team; be under the age of 21 during their last match in an official competition; not being fielded for at least three years; have not played in the AFCON, European Championship or World Cup; holding the nationality of an association they wish to represent prior to their debuts for their current associations.

As it stands, Saka meets the criteria to switch association from England to Nigeria but the English FA can completely lock up his international future if handed minutes by manager Gareth Southgate in their home match against Iceland on Wednesday, November 18.

The Gunners starlet shares the same Nigerian agent as Alex Iwobi, Joe Aribo and Ola Aina who are currently on international duty with the Super Eagles in Benin City.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : thefa.com