Arsenal youngster, Alex Iwobi, ended any chance England had of persuading him to play for the Three Lions on Friday – after making his competitive Nigeria debut in front of a bumper crowd at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna on Friday.
And @alexiwobi comes on for @MosesDaddySimon #NGAEGY Nigeria 1-0 Egypt pic.twitter.com/mCoxGVpmKz
— Nigeria Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) March 25, 2016
Iwobi’s introduction as a substitute ends England’s hopes of persuading the youngster to represent the Three Lions in the future, but the 19-year-old confirmed he was approached by the FA.
Shortly after the game Iwobi, who scored in Arsenal’s victory against Everton last weekend, tweeted: “Unlucky Not To Win But Happy To Have Made My Competitive Debut For Nigeria #SuperEagles.
“Would Also Like Thank You To England For Giving Me The Chance To Represent Them.”
Unlucky Not To Win But Happy To Have Made My Competitive Debut For Nigeria #SuperEagles
— Alexander Iwobi (@alexiwobi) March 25, 2016
Would Also Like Thank You To England For Giving Me The Chance To Represent Them ✌????️
— Alexander Iwobi (@alexiwobi) March 25, 2016
Iwobi, who has been a sensation for Arsene Wenger’s side since breaking through, had previously represented England at Under 16, U17 and U18 level.
However, the Lagos-born attacker chose to represent Nigeria at senior level and featured twice in friendly matches before his first competitive appearance for the Super Eagles against Egypt.
Chelsea midfielder, John Obi Mikel, captained Nigeria for the first time in the qualifier and he had positive words for both Iwobi and Manchester City youngster Kelechi Iheanacho who also played.
“It’s amazing to see these young players coming through – Iwobi and Iheanacho – they’re doing great for their clubs and I think they are the future of this Super Eagles.
“We have got a right blend now of older and younger players. I think it is always good to have this balance with young players so that they can learn and grow fast in the game.
“It’s quite different playing in the national team and playing in the clubs so it’s good for them to start early. In years to come I think we will see them do well,” Mikel said.
