Arsenal goalkeeper and former England U-18 international, Arthur Okonkwo, has agreed to play for Nigeria Super Eagles.
Okonkwo is currently out on loan with Wrexham, fighting at the top of English League Two. The goalkeeper impressed with Crewe Alexandra and Sturm Graz last season, and he seems to be doing well again with his new club.
But for the time being, Okonkwo’s club progress isn’t leading to international opportunities with England. It’s been over four years since the 22-year-old was involved with the England U-18s, and it seems his head is now being turned.
The reports said that Jose Peseiro has made contact with Okonkwo, who would be eligible to make the nationality switch to Nigeria, and he’s reportedly indicated to Peseiro a willingness to do just that.
Peseiro has been tracking Okonkwo for a while, and the hope was that the Arsenal man will be cleared by the time AFCON comes around. That might not be possible now with the championship just less than 10 days to start.
As well as Peseiro, former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Amaju Pinnick, apparently “put in a word” for Okonkwo.
Over a season and a bit in senior football, Okonkwo has made 61 appearances and kept 24 clean sheets.
It’s been a strong start to the goalkeeper’s first-team career, and it’s little wonder Nigeria would look to lure him away.
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