Allnigeriasoccer.com can exclusively report that the English Football Association currently hold the upper hand in the race to secure the services of highly-rated Crystal Palace centre-back Isaac Ogunrinde.

Born in Dublin in August 2011, Ogunrinde is eligible to represent the Republic of Ireland by birth, Nigeria through his father and England.

However, the Football Association have made the first move to secure his international allegiance by inviting the promising defender to a Young Lions training camp in Cyprus.

During their week-long stay, England's U15 side are scheduled to face the United States and Cyprus in friendly fixtures.

Regarded as one for the future, Ogunrinde made his debut for Crystal Palace U18s in his first year as a teenager, underlining the high esteem in which he is held at the club.

The 14-year-old is highly versatile, primarily operating as a centre-back in either a back three or back four, while also capable of featuring as a right-sided centre-back, right wing-back or right-back depending on the tactical setup.

Ogunrinde joined Crystal Palace approximately three years ago after being spotted whilst representing grassroots side Cray Valley.

Notably, Palace academy graduate Victor Moses opted to represent Nigeria at senior level, having previously featured for England at youth level.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel