'Massive' - Lookman opens up on life-changing decision to switch allegiance from England to Nigeria

2017 Fifa U20 World Cup winner, Ademola Lookman has opened up on his decision to switch international allegiance from England to Nigeria.

Born in London, England to Nigerian parents, the Atalanta ace represented the European nation's U19s, U20s and U21s. 

He did not get any invitation to the Three Lions and switched allegiance to Nigeria in 2022.

Lookman made his debut for the Super Eagles in the 2022 Fifa World Cup qualifiers against Ghana, coming on as a substitute for Moses Simon.

The 27-year-old has been excellent for the West African side but took it to another heights at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations where he scored three goals and registered an assist.

He was named in the tournament's Team of the Tournament and, coupled with his performances for Atalanta, who he helped win the UEFA Europa League last term, is in the running for the African Men's Footballer of the Year award.

Speaking to Sporty TV on switching allegiance to Nigeria, Lookman has revealed that he has not regretted doing so and the decision marked a monumental change in his career

"It was massive for me because that was really a big turning point in my career. Ever since I've put on the Super Eagles jersey, it has been fruitful," Ademola Lookman told Sporty TV.

"We have been able to achieve together as a team and we are still growing as a team. The togetherness of the team is something that is very special within the squad.

"We showed that in the last Afcon, we got to the final but unfortunately we came up a bit short. 

"The foundations are there and it's just a fantastic feeling to be able to hold that with pride, to say I'm representing my country."

It is not difficult to see the reason behind Lookman's assertion, particularly based on the nominations he has received for continental and international awards.

Besides being nominated for the African Men's Footballer of the Year award, he was also nominated for the Ballon d'Or and finished above Arsenal star Bukayo Saka and Chelsea forward Cole Palmer.

Abdulkareem Abdulhamid

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