Chuba Akpom still wants to play for Nigeria despite no call-up

Nigerian forward Chuba Akpom has said he is still ready to play for Nigeria, even though he has not been invited to the national team since switching to Nigeria in 2019.

Akpom was born in England to Nigerian parents. Like many players with dual nationality, he played for England at youth level, representing them in the Under-16, 17, 19, 20, and 21 teams.

However, in 2019, he decided to switch to Nigeria. But since then, he has not received a call-up. Two seasons ago, he had a fantastic season with Middlesbrough in the English Championship, scoring 28 goals and providing two assists in 40 games. But he was still not invited.

Now playing for Ajax, the situation has not changed, and he has not been called up to the Super Eagles.

On Thursday, Akpom assisted Ajax’s first goal in their Europa League match against Galatasaray. After the game, he was asked about his desire to play for Nigeria. The former Arsenal player said he has been waiting for an invitation for six years.

“I don’t know why I haven’t been invited to the Super Eagles. Maybe because there are many top strikers,” Akpom told Oma Akatugba.

“But for the team to improve, players should be selected based on merit. Those who perform well should get a chance.

“I always give 100 percent. I switched to Nigeria a long time ago, in 2019. If I get called up, that’s great. If not, I will keep working hard.”

This season, Akpom has scored eight goals and provided one assist in 32 games for Ajax. Apart from Victor Osimhen and Victor Boniface, few Nigerian strikers are playing at the highest level.

If Akpom improves and scores more goals, he could increase his chances of making the Super Eagles squad soon.