Startling information from England indicates that Liverpool’s Nigeria-born winger, Jordon Ibe may have turned his back on an offer to line out for the Super Eagles, despite a visit by new head coach, Sunday Ogorchukwu Oliseh earlier this week.
In contrast with initial reports from Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) that Oliseh had convinced Ibe to don the green-and-white instead of stepping into senior international commitments with England, the fast-rising youngster has apparently made up his mind to snub his father’s country.
This is sequel to an exposé by British community newspaper, Liverpool Echo, which reports that Ibe, who has 10 appearances for England at youth level, has already spoken of his preference for a future with his country of birth.
The report states categorically that the 19-year-old winger is committed to play for England at full senior level, despite interest from Nigeria, though the youngster, who was born in Bermondsey, is eligible for the Eagles through his father’s nationality.
It was based on hints about Ibe’s father’s preference for Nigeria that Oliseh on Wednesday held talks with the Liverpool kid over switching his long-term future national allegiance, but the youngster has reportedly turned down the approach.
Ibe has represented England at U18m 19 and 20 levels and was recently promoted to Gareth Southgate’s U21s but is still eligible to play for Nigeria at the highest level because of his father’s roots.
He would not be bound to England until his plays in a competitive game for them but the FA are keen to keep him within their set up, while Gareth Southgate and technical director, Dan Ashworth, are now likely to get in touch and counter Nigeria’s overtures.
The 19-year-old teenage star, who has been tipped to fill the void left by Raheem Sterling at Anfield Road, has not made any personal comment on his preference, but sources told goal.com that he did accept Nigeria’s offer, despite meeting with Oliseh.
“Ibe hasn’t committed to Nigeria yet but discussions with him were positive because of his acceptance to meet with the crew that visited him,” the source told Goal.
“But he won’t be ready to feature for the Eagles against Tanzania this year because of the process that entails his switch but he could be ready next year.”
