- Striker Tammy Abraham could play for Nigeria at next year’s World Cup in Russia
- The Chelsea starlet, who is on loan at Swansea, has played for England Under 21s
- But he is switching according to Nigerian Football Federation chief Amaju Pinnic
- Teenager Abraham was born in London but qualifies for Nigeria through his dad
On-loan Chelsea starlet Tammy Abraham has apparently agreed to play for Nigeria at senior international level despite winning nine Under 21 caps for England.
Nigerian Football Federation president Amaju Pinnick, who is a friend of the striker’s father, has claimed that 19-year-old Abraham could play at next year’s World Cup should the Super Eagles qualify for Russia 2018.
Abraham was born in London but remains eligible to play for Nigeria due to his dad’s nationality and having not yet won a first-team cap for England.
Tammy Abraham is apparently set to turn his back on England in favour of playing for Nigeria
The 19-year-old Chelsea striker has scored three goals in nine Under 21 games for England
Abraham, who is on loan at Swansea this season, was born in London to a Nigerian father
‘I had a very honest and productive discussion with Tammy and his father last week,’ said Pinnick.
‘It’s been a long process but I can tell you authoritatively that he has agreed to play for Nigeria and not England. He and his parents have started the necessary documents to effect the switch.
‘Clearly he understands he stands a better chance playing for the Super Eagles. With his talent he has the ability to fight for a place in the Nigeria squad, by God’s grace we make it to Russia, then he would contest for a chance to represent his fatherland.’
Abraham, who is currently on loan at Swansea on a season-long deal, has scored three times for England U21s. He previously netted goals for the Three Lions at U18 and U19 level.
Nigeria are currently well on course to book their sixth appearance at a World Cup. They are three points clear of Group B rivals Zambia in African qualifying and have a superior goal difference with two rounds of fixtures left to play.
Nigeria can confirm their place at Russia 2018 with a game to spare by beating Zambia when the two teams clash next month.
Nigerian Football Federation chief Amaju Pinnick has said Abraham may play at the World Cup
Captained by midfielder John Obi Mikel, Nigeria are well on course to qualify for Russia 2018