Ademola Lookman has spoken out about his decision to represent Nigeria over England at the international level, describing it as a “tough decision.”
Lookman was born in West London to Nigerian parents. He represented England from U-19 through U-21 levels, winning the FIFA U-20 World Cup with the Three Lions in 2017.
The 24-year-old applied to switch his allegiance to the country of his parents’ nationality in October 2021. FIFA cleared him to represent Nigeria in February of this year.
He made his Nigeria debut in March’s World Cup qualifier against Ghana in Kumasi, where he came off the bench and started the return leg at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja.
When asked about his decision to play for Nigeria rather than England, the RB Leipzig winger, who was on loan at Leicester City last season, said:
“It was a tough decision. A decision I had to make because obviously it was my country’s call. My parents are Nigerians and I came to Nigeria a lot of times growing up and Nigeria wasn’t new to me. Being around the coach, players and people wasn’t strange.
“Making decisions wasn’t a tough decision in terms of knowing where I was going. Coming into the team, the squad has been great and everyone has been very receptive and welcoming. I love this group and the people.”
Lookman came on as an 81st-minute substitute against Sierra Leone on Thursday. The winger is hoping to score his first goal for the Super Eagles soon and bring pleasure to Nigerians.
“Whenever I step out onto the pitch, I give 100 percent but for Super Eagles, I give 150 percent and that is because I know what it means to the people.
“I hope to endear myself to Nigerians by playing well and winning as many games and laurels. My first goal will be coming soon and hopefully I will score plenty in future. At the moment I want to enjoy playing and the goals will come.” he added.
