Sensational new kid on the block, Bukayo Saka is reportedly torn between choosing to represent England or Nigeria.
The 18-year-old whizkid has attracted attention from both camps following his scintillating form at Arsenal this season.
The Emirates hotshot is yet to receive a call-up but is eligible to play for both countries as he was born in London and has Nigerian parents.
The highly-rated winger has featured at international level for England’s Under-16, Under-17, Under-18 and Under-19 squads.
But admits he would be “proud” to pull on a Super Eagles shirt in homage to his parents’ heritage.
He told Sky Sports: “It’s a tough choice,
“I’m happy to have represented England at youth level but I’m also proud of my Nigerian heritage from my parents.
“We haven’t been picked by any team so it’s about staying humble and when the time comes we’ll make the decision.”
England boss, Gareth Southgate has been keeping close tabs on the youngster – who has been one of the club’s best players this season since breaking through from the youth set-up.
He nabbed his first Premier League goal at the start of July with an excellent finish at Wolves which proved to be the winner.
And has established himself as a regular starter, having made 27 appearances in the top-flight.
And if he carries on like that, the postponement of Euro 2020 could prove to be a blessing in disguise for Saka, who offers Southgate plenty of quality in a number of areas.
Nigeria are said to have stepped up their efforts to lure Saka away from the Three Lions.
The Daily Mail claimed Nigeria are prepared to fast-track Saka into their first-team.
The Super Eagles also desperately wanted Tammy Abraham to snub England and play for them instead – despite him having two Three Lions caps.
Abraham is eligible to play for the country as his father was born in Nigeria.
And Nigeria Football Federation president Amaju Pinnick told SunSport back in 2017 that Abraham was poised to snub England for them.
However, Abraham then issued a statement denying the claim and pledging his future to England.
Southgate’s head has also been turned by United’s Greenwood, 18 – who has been dubbed as the Red Devil’s new wonderkid.
Saka added: “Greenwood and Jude Bellingham have so much quality. Whether they are 18 or 28 or 38 they’ve got quality and when you’ve got quality you’re going to be in the team, providing you can apply the right attitude.”
Phil Foden, 20, has also emerged as one of England’s top talents on the big stage and was said to already be in Southgate’s plans.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
