Nigerian Federation Pressurize USA Youth Team Star To Switch Allegiance To Nigeria

Published: August 01, 2018

Toronto whizkid Ayo Akinola could switch his allegiance to Nigeria after he was approached by Nigeria Football Federation officials.

The 18-year-old was born in in Detroit to Nigerian parents and can represent the senior national teams of Nigeria, United States and Canada but the United Soccer Soccer Federation are in pole position for his services.

Akinola was part of the United States squad at last year's Fifa U17 World Cup, playing all their five matches during the competition hosted by India.

''I’m still discussing (it) with my family. Because I feel like it’s a really big (decision) ... It’s a one-time switch so you can’t switch back,'' Akinola was quoted as saying by The Star.

''I’m still young. No time to rush. But at some point, I’m going to have to make a decision which one is the best fit for me.''

Akinola added that he will make a decision on the country he will represent before the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup qualifiers.

He has also played for United States U14 and U15 national teams.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : ussoccer.com