'I feel very Nigerian' - Former Chelsea star Tomori explains meaning of his name

Published: September 17, 2021

Chelsea academy product Oluwafikayomi Tomori has not forgotten his roots even though he is cap-tied to England, where he grew up.

The central defender was born in Calgary, Alberta to Nigerian parents, making him eligible to represent the three-time African champions and Canada prior to his competitive debut for the Three Lions in a European Championship qualifier against Kosovo in November 2019.

Around two months before his senior debut for England, Nigeria Football Federation boss Amaju Pinnik monitored Tomori from the stands as Chelsea were held to a 2-2 draw by Sheffield United in a Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge a league game versus Sheffield United.

When asked the meaning of his name, Tomori told DAZN via Milanpress.it : "My name is Nigerian and it means God has filled me with joy, it is typical in Nigeria to give such names.

"I feel very Nigerian, when I was little my parents spoke to me in the local language and I ate typical Nigerian food".

When Tomori made his debut for Canada youth teams vs England U20s in 2016, he played against his good pal Ola Aina, who later switched his international allegiance to the Super Eagles.

AC Milan is where Tomori now plies his trade, joining the Italian giants after a fifteen-year association with Chelsea.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : chelseafc.com

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