Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, both players for Premier League club Fulham, expressed their pride in representing the Nigerian national team.
The duo, who were part of the squad that helped the Super Eagles reach the final of AFCON 2023, are grateful for their decision and hope that other Nigerian-origin players born in different countries will make the same choice.
Both players could have represented other nations, but Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey chose the Nigerian national team.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Alex Iwobi emphasized that success on the international stage would positively influence other players’ decisions.
“Yeah, of course, especially with the sort of talent we have in Nigeria now. 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 what I was like, there was no turning back for me. Plus, they’ve seen me and Calvin do it, why not do it as well?”
Calvin Bassey, on the other hand, highlighted how the love from Nigerian fans has been an overwhelming feeling for him and that it could be a major reason for foreign-born Nigerian players to choose the Super Eagles.
“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.”
“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.”
