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The Chelsea star is being eyed by the NFF for a switch to the Super Eagles despite representing England at youth level
The Nigerian Football Federation is intensifying its efforts to persuade Chelsea defender Oluwatosin Adarabioyo to switch his international allegiance from England to Nigeria.
Despite turning down two previous approaches, Adarabioyo remains a key target for the NFF, which views him as a potential asset to the Super Eagles.
NFF's persistent efforts to convince Adarabioyo
Earlier discussions took place between Adarabioyo and former Nigeria manager Jose Peseiro, who met with the defender in London before the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, but his efforts, however, did not convince Adarabioyo to commit to the Super Eagles at that time.
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Sources have revealed that the NFF is undeterred by the past rejections and continues to pursue Adarabioyo, who also as they did with Ademola Lookman, another English-born player who initially declined Nigeria's advances before eventually joining the national team.
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Lookman's success with the Super Eagles, particularly during the AFCON, where he played a crucial role in the team's journey to the finals, will be seen as motivation to get a deal done for Adarabioyo.
Debate over English-born players representing Nigeria
Adarabioyo’s potential switch comes amidst growing debate about whether or not players should be allowed to change international allegiances after initially picking a side and representing one country at the international level.
Former Chelsea and Nigeria international John Obi Mikel recently weighed in on the issue, referencing Shola Ameobi's late switch to Nigeria after failing to secure a consistent place in the England squad and opening a discourse that could also affect Adarabioyo.
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The Manchester City academy graduate has already played for England at four youth levels and according to Mikel, should not be allowed to play for Nigeria, although this would be hotly contested by fans of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, who see the value that Adarabioyo could bring to the team.
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