Alex Iwobi
decided to switch his international allegiance from England to Nigeria by
playing a cap-tying game for Nigeria in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier
against Egypt in March 2016, despite representing England at U16, U17 and U18
levels.
Super Eagles
player and Everton midfielder, Alex Iwobi, has revealed why he chose to
represent Nigeria rather than England.
Iwobi said
though he was well treated by the English Football Association however he had
to chose Nigeria because of his heritage.
“I will
always have my respect for England, when I played for England they gave a great
opportunity, they treat me very well,” said Iwobi, who is the nephew to African
football legend Jay Jay Okocha, on Instagram Live.
“However, I
feel like I am a true Nigerian, I grew up in the Nigerian culture and when I
had the opportunity to go back I felt more at home playing for Nigeria.
“I felt at
home playing for England as well.” said Iwobi who has an impressive 40
international caps under his belt before turning 24 years old.
Iwobi also
admitted it was difficult choosing Nigeria over the Three Lions as he received
his footballing education in England.
“Of course it
was difficult because I was very comfortable playing for England like it’s
where I’ve grown up. I grew up in the English roots, so I knew how the system
works.
“But when I
had the opportunity to go and trial for the U23s is when I thought there was a
lot of love for football, the way I was treated there and these times I didn’t
have the profile I had today. I was really excited to play for the U23s.
“Even though
the organization may be a bit different to England, I really enjoy it. Even to
this day I have no regrets.”
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