3 weeks ago
43 Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey has expressed happiness with their decision to represent Nigeria.
Iwobi represented England at youth level before switching allegiance to Nigeria.
Bassey was born in Italy, but moved to England as a child.
The duo were part of Super Eagles squad that came second at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire early this year.
Iwobi believed the Super Eagles impressive performance in the competition will inspire more Nigerian players born abroad to play for the Super Eagles.
“Yeah, of course, especially with the sort of talent we have in Nigeria now,” Iwobi ,told Sky Sports.
“Unfortunately, we lost in the final (AFCON), but if we keep on progressing and win competitions, it’ll attract players not just living in England, but also in Spain and Germany to try and play from where they’re actually from because for me, I grew up in the Nigerian culture so when I just tried it out and saw it what was I like, there was no turning back for me.
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” Plus, they’ve seen me and Calvin do it, why not do it as well.”
Bassey said the love from Nigerians is always massive.
“The love is crazy, still and I think more from my family. I didn’t get to grow up in Nigeria, so whenever I go back, it’s always a different connection and like killing two birds with one stone,” Bassey declared.
Like Alex said, I’m the first generation from my family to grow up in England, but I grew up in a very African household, so for me, it didn’t feel strange going back, it just felt normal.
So, I think it encourages people to learn more about their backgrounds. They don’t necessarily have to play for the country but at least to know more about their roots is important. Alex and I feel at home when we’re there, so it’s good.”
By Adeboye Amosu
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