NFF Explains Why Oliseh Added Alex Iwobi To Eagles Squad For October Friendlies

Following the announcement of Alex Iwobi’s inclusion in the list of Super Eagles to face Congo and Cameroon, Nigerians have questioned the rationale behind the Arsenal man’s call up.

However, NFF 2^nd vice president Shehu Dikko says the 19 year old is a late inclusion to the squad because of FIFA rules which state that he must play for the main team before he can be considered for the U-23 squad.

Alex Iwobi

According to Dikko, U-23 coach Samson Siasia would love to include Iwobi in his squad but the lad cannot play because he has already played for England at junior level.

  According to africanfootball.com, Shehu Dikko wrote on his facebook page: “The call-up to Iwobi is simple a footballing as well technical one and for the good of the country. Iwobi has declared intention to represent Nigeria and he is good enough to represent Nigeria at U23 level. However, as he has played for England at the junior level he cannot play for Nigeria again at the junior level as FIFA would only approve his change of Nationality if he plays for the main Super Eagles.”

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“Therefore, his call-up now is to get his nationality change sorted and thus make him available to play for the Nigeria U23 If selected.

“Hence, Oliseh called him up on the request of Siasia who wants to use him for the U23s and by this action Nigeria will have secured his allegiance and this would also further motivate other players like him to come along.

“Finally on footballing terms, the potential of Iwobi is not in doubt based on what he did during Arsenal pre-season so in the long term this might be a very good decision for Nigeria and Iwobi.”

Meanwhile, Iwobi has revealed that his inspiration is Hector Bellerin,  an Arsenal player once loaned out to Watford.

Iwobi, who is looking to follow the path of his famous legendary uncle, JJ Okocha, expressed his desire to force his way into the Arsenal first team.

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