Nigerian forward Chuba Akpom has reiterated his commitment to playing for the Super Eagles despite not receiving a national team call-up since switching allegiances in 2019.
Born in England to Nigerian parents, Akpom initially represented England at youth levels, playing for their Under-16, 17, 19, 20, and 21 teams.
However, he made the decision to switch to Nigeria in 2019.
Despite an impressive spell at Middlesbrough, where he scored 28 goals and registered 2 assists in 40 appearances during the English Championship, Akpom has yet to receive a call-up to the Super Eagles.
Photo by imago
Now at Ajax, Akpom has continued to show solid form, but the national team invitation has still not materialized.
In Ajax’s recent Europa League clash with Galatasaray, he provided the assist for his team’s first goal.
I’ve been waiting to play for Nigeria since 2019- Chuba Akpom. pic.twitter.com/xfsHC99gii
— Oma Akatugba (@omaakatugba) January 31, 2025
After the match, Akpom was asked about his ongoing pursuit of a Super Eagles call-up.
“I don’t know why I haven’t been called up yet, maybe because there are many top strikers,” Akpom shared with Oma Akatugba.
“But for the nation to progress, players should be selected based on merit. The ones performing well should be picked.”
“I’ve been waiting since 2019 after switching allegiances. I give my best, and if the call-up comes, great. If not, I’ll continue working hard.”
This season, Akpom has netted 8 goals and provided 1 assist in 32 appearances for Ajax.
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Akpom believes his continued good performances will earn him a place in starked Nigeria forward line that has Victor Osimhen and Victor Boniface.