Jeff Ekhator has revealed his intention to switch international allegiance to Nigeria, offering a potential boost to play for the Super Eagles.
The Genoa striker, born in Italy to Nigerian parents, disclosed in an interview with Vivo Azzurro TV that he remains closely connected to his Nigerian roots and is planning a visit to the country.
Despite representing the Italian national under-19 football team and under-21 team at the youth level, the teenager says his heritage continues to shape his identity.
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“I am Nigerian from both parents, and they speak to me both in Italian and in Nigerian,” Ekhator said.
He added that he hopes to visit Nigeria soon: “I would like to go there, maybe this summer. They have told me about when they came here to work. We are all happy together.”
Ekhator has made 11 appearances for Italy’s U-19 side, scoring twice, and has also netted two goals in six outings for the U-21 team.
However, he would require clearance from FIFA to complete a nationality switch and represent Nigeria at the senior level.
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