'I've never turned down Nigeria' - Chelsea CB Tosin says decision is coming soon on international future

Chelsea centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo has addressed speculation surrounding his nationality, dismissing widespread reports suggesting he turned down an opportunity to represent Nigeria at the international level.

Tosin, who joined Chelsea as a free agent for Fulham, made the clarification during his post-match reaction to the Blues' 4-1 victory over Real Betis to lift the UEFA Europa League trophy.

The lanky defender, who didn't feature in the final, was reported to have turned down a move to switch allegiance to Nigeria, before later expressing willingness to represent the country.

Providing clarification about his international future, the 27-year-old centre-back clarified misconceptions circulating online regarding his ties with the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles.

"Both of those pieces of news are false. I have never turned down Nigeria and never had any conversation with them to say I would be going (playing) to Nigeria," Adarabioyo said.

"At the point of last season, we had this little bit of conversation, I told them I wanted to focus on club football. I was in my last year at Fulham."

Now settling into life at Stamford Bridge, Adarabioyo hinted that the coming months may be decisive regarding his international allegiance.

"Now I am at Chelsea, my first year, which I want to concentrate on again. I think now is going to be the time I need to make a decision."

He also heaped praise on Cole Palmer following his decisive performance to ensure Chelsea's comeback to secure the victory at the Stadion Miejski on Wednesday.

"If you saw what he did today, it was crazy, to be honest. Two very special individual moments, whilst he holds on to the ball and provides top quality to get the ball onto Enzo's foot and Nico's head to score. 

"Two great goals and it completely changed the game. Yeah, that's what he does more."

Despite representing England at various youth levels, Tosin is yet to make an appearance for the England national team, a situation that makes him eligible to represent Nigeria.

Adeyemi Adewale

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