Russian-born forward German Onugkha has expressed his interest in representing the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
The FC Copenhagen striker, born in Moscow to a Russian mother and a Nigerian father, recently declined a call-up from the Russian national team for their upcoming international friendlies against Thailand and Vietnam in September.
Onugkha, 28, has now set his sights on securing a spot in Nigeria’s national team. Speaking to reporters after making his unofficial debut for FC Copenhagen in a friendly against Landskrona BoIS on Thursday, Onugkha explained his decision to reject Russia’s invitation and his desire to connect with his Nigerian roots.
“I decided to say no to Russia’s call-up because I wanted to focus on my next club, my future, and therefore I said that it would be better for me to stay here in Europe,” Onugkha said.
He also revealed plans to apply for a Nigerian passport in the coming weeks: “During the next month, I will try to get a Nigerian passport because my father is from there. So, I will go to the Embassy here in Copenhagen and see if I can get it, then we will see.”
With his versatility and strong performances at club level, Onugkha could add depth to Nigeria’s attacking options if granted a call-up.
