Reims of France winger, Sheyi Ojo is in a race against time to gain formal clearance from Britain’s four football associations, in order for him to switch allegiance from England and play for Nigeria at senior level.
However, officials say Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) are already working on the matter, in order to ensure Ojo, who is on loan at Reims from Liverpool, is eligible to play for the Super Eagles at AFCON 2019.
Footballlive.ng gathered further that the 21-year-old has represented England at all youth levels from the U16 to U21 and was a key member of the squad that won the 2017 FIFA U20 World Cup in South Korea.
This comes three months after Ojo, who was part of England’s FIFA U-20 World Cup-winning squad, said he is ready to honour Nigeria’s invitation to the senior national team if the NFF come calling.
Ojo, who was born to Nigerian parents in Hertfordshire, said he would never turn down the three-time African champions, but admitted he would think deeply about the call before making his decision.
The dark-skinned winger stated back then: “Of course, if I was to get selected I’d definitely think about it, I’d never turn down Nigeria.
“It’s obviously a massive nation. I’m just really focused on club football at the moment, but I’m excited for the future, both club and country.
“My parents are originally from Nigeria, so they’ve always been keen, but so far I’ve mainly been focusing on club football.
“It’s starting to get to the time where I have to start thinking about my future. If Nigeria were to call me now it would be an honour.
“I’m from Nigeria originally so it’d be an honour, likewise with England. If I keep doing well, opportunities will come by for club and country.
“It’s not really something I’m thinking about at the moment but you never know what could happen in the future.”
