Liverpool striker, Dominic Solanke has revealed part of his zeal for Nigeria, as the former Chelsea youngster is singing praises for two of his teammates, Ovie Ejaria and Sheyi Ojo, who enjoy connections with him from Africa’s most populated country.
Solanke, Ejaria and Ojo were all part of England’s youth national team that won the [past FIFA U-20 World Cup, such that their relationship was bound to grow, and he says it has gone even deeper, despite separations by various club commitments.
The trio are still growing through the ranks at Anfield and, though they all have various impacts with England’s youth national teams, they can still play for Nigeria at senior level.
Solanke was part of the England squad that won the 2014 UEFA European Under-17 Championship, where he was the tournament’s joint top scorer with four goals in four appearances.
Nigeria is yet to officially approach Solanke, who is expected to begin the campaign with Liverpool U23s, but can expect to be given chances to perform at first-team level.
Solanke arrived at Liverpool after sealing the U20 World Cup with England, during which he was awarded the Golden Ball as player of the tournament in South Korea.
Having also won the FA Youth Cup twice and the UEFA Youth League once with Chelsea, as well as the European U17 Championship at international level, Solanke arrived with a proven pedigree.
On sealing his switch to Merseyside, Solanke described himself as a “born winner,” as well as explaining the variety of roles he is able to perform in attack.
“My favourite position would probably be the striker, No. 9. But I can play behind the striker in the No. 10 position or out wide, so I’m quite versatile.”
The Basingstoke native also revealed why he chose to join The Reds, are received a great amount of encouragement from Ejaria and Ojo last summer.
“As a young player you always want to see your club pushing through their young players and hoping you can do the same.
“I’m quite good friends with Joe Gomez, I’ve known him from quite young, and obviously Ovie and Sheyi, who were with us at the World Cup.
“I think Liverpool have got a lot of good young players, so hopefully everyone can play their part.
“We spoke a bit and they’ve only got good things to say, so I’m looking forward to enjoying it with them.”
