Former Arsenal player, Ryan Alebiosu has revealed his decision to choose the Super Eagles of Nigeria over England.
Alebiosu, who currently plays for Blackburn Rovers, was born in England to Nigerian parents, making him eligible to represent both the Super Eagles and the Three Lions at the international stage.
The 23-year-old has received his first call-up to the Nigerian national team in preparation for this weekend’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Recall that Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle had included Alebiosu in his squad after injuries sidelined both Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina and Brentford loanee Benjamin Fredrick, preventing them from participating in the tournament in Morocco.
Speaking to BBC Radio Lancashire, Alebiosu explained why he decided to play for Nigeria over England.
“I am obviously excited, playing for my nation for the first time is obviously a pleasure,” Alebiosu said.
“100 percent. It has always been a big part of me, Nigeria and England, one of them.
“And obviously Nigeria came calling, it’s something that I didn’t want to miss. It’s a big opportunity, especially at 23 years of age. It’s special.”