Mikel Obi criticizes Shola Ameobi for late Nigeria call-up

Former Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi has strongly criticized Shola Ameobi for rejecting Nigeria’s call-up until the latter stages of his career.

In a recent interview, Mikel expressed his frustration with players born abroad who, after initially choosing other national teams, turn to Nigeria only when their options diminish.

Mikel, who captained Nigeria to victory in the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), did not mince words in his condemnation. He used Ameobi’s case as a key example to illustrate his point about players who seemingly choose Nigeria as a last resort.

“Shola Ameobi had the opportunity to play for Nigeria,” Mikel said during his Obi One podcast. “Nigeria were chasing him for years, and he refused. He had this strong partnership with Alan Shearer at Newcastle, and they were performing exceptionally well. The Nigerian FA kept reaching out to him, but he was waiting for England.”

Ameobi, a notable figure at Newcastle United, initially sought to represent England but, after being overlooked by the English national team, eventually opted to play for Nigeria later in his career. Mikel criticized this decision, noting that Ameobi only agreed to join the Super Eagles when he was approaching 30 and past his peak.

“He came to Nigeria at 29, almost 30, and played for only one year,” Mikel continued. “The Nigerian FA didn’t have many options because we were heading to the World Cup. It felt like he only chose Nigeria when he had no other choices. We are not a second option.”

The former Chelsea star’s outspoken remarks are sure to spark debate among football fans and pundits alike, as they touch on sensitive issues of national loyalty and the challenges of international football representation.