Why Arsenal Linked Wonderkid Did Not Turn Up For Nigeria Vs South Africa

Arsenal linked wonderkid Lateef Omidiji Jnr didn't turn up at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium for his presentation to the public and media on Saturday.

 The Nigerian Federation had planned to present the 13-year-old before the national team's African Cup of Nations qualifier against South Africa but his school in the Netherlands didn't give him the go-ahead to travel to Uyo.

''Lateef would have loved to honour the invitation, but school is in the final weeks. There will be plenty of opportunities, hopefully the Cameroon game, '' a top source close to the Feyenoord striker told allnigeriasoccer.com.

''He was hoping his school allows him to take it sooner or after he returns from the trip but their response was negative.

''He will definitely be in Nigeria sometime this year.''

Born in the United States, the in-demand talent is wanted by USA and Netherlands to represent their youth teams, but the Nigeria Football Federation appear to be in position to snatch his services.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel