Newcastle and Celtic's Nigeria-eligible midfielders become provisionally cap-tied to England and Scotland

Newcastle United dual-national midfielder Sam Alabi is now provisionally cap-tied his country of birth, England, allnigeriasoccer.com reports. 

Born in Manchester, Alabi remains eligible to represent Nigeria through his father. 

However, by featuring in England's 1–0 defeat to Scotland in a UEFA European U17 Championship qualifier on Tuesday, the 2009-born midfielder is now provisionally committed to the Three Lions.

The appearance hands the English FA an early advantage in securing Alabi's long-term international allegiance. 

Should the talented Newcastle United starlet later decide to switch his international future to Nigeria, FIFA approval will be required for a change of association.

Wearing the captain's armband, Alabi was not the only player of Nigerian descent named in England U17s matchday squad, as Everton's Malik Olayiwola remained an unused substitute throughout the contest at the Albert Bartlett Stadium.

Meanwhile, Celtic midfielder Emmanuel Obidiwe also became provisionally cap-tied to a Home Nation, after coming off the bench for the final 32 minutes of the same fixture.

Having previously represented Scotland at U16 level, Obidiwe made his competitive debut for the U17s on Tuesday.

The 16-year-old, who follows the Super Eagles and Victor Osimhen on social media, is seemingly a fan of Nigeria's senior national team.

Notably, Ifeoma Dieke, Chris Iwelumo, and Ikechi Anya are among several players of Nigerian descent who ultimately chose to represent Scotland at senior level and time will tell whether Obidiwe follows a similar path.

Obidiwe signed his first professional contract with Celtic in July 2025.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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