The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed the completion of the nationality switch of Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, who is now eligible to play for the senior national team of Nigeria, OwnGoalNigeria.com reports.
Born in England to parents of Nigerian descent, the 24 year old applied to FIFA to switch his international allegiance after holding talks with head coach Eric Chelle.
FIFA approved his switch, and he will be available for the team as soon as their campaign at their campaign at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations is over.
“The NFF is always excited to have another good player committing to Nigeria and providing an option in a particular position,” NFF Director of Communications Dr. Ademola Olajire told ESPN.
“Arthur Okonkwo is a prospect and we believe the technical crew is delighted to have another option in the goalkeeping department.”
Meanwhile a source at the NFF said they have no idea on the future of Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, who requested to be left out of the team after failing to get assurances that he will be the first choice at the tournament.
” Okoye’s future is in the hands of the coach. As a football body we can’t dictate to the coach who to speak, but you can’t deny that Chelle is obviously disappointed with Okoye. He will decide”, he stated.
Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman
