The Nigeria Football Association are still awaiting feedback from the English Football Association regarding Chelsea defender, Ola Aina’s change of nationality to Nigeria, two months before crucial World Cup qualifiers against Cameroon.
Aina, who was born in London, previously represented England at U16, U17, U18, U19 and U20 levels, but is hoping to feature for the Super Eagles and has applied to FIFA for a change of association since he has not played competitively for the Three Lions.
Aina is not yet in possession of a Nigerian passport contrary to widespread reports, but the Nigerian Federation have concrete assurances from the Nigeria Immigration Service that the wing-back can obtain the passport within twenty four hours.
”Aina’s request to transfer his international eligibility is in the final stage, the Nigeria Football Federation have written to the English FA, they need to hear from them first before taking the next step,” a Nigeria Football Federation source said.
”The NFF made contact with the English FA after the season ended. He does not have a Nigerian passport yet, but that can be settled within twenty four hours after we get a response from the English FA.
”We are optimistic that FIFA will approve Aina’s one-time switch to Nigeria before the World Cup qualifiers against Cameroon.”
Aina, a former England U19 captain, has not featured for England at any level since March 27, 2016 when he lasted 58 minutes on the pitch against Canada U20s.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
