Former Nigeria international, John Mikel Obi has taken a massive dig at footballers of African origin who wait for European countries to hand them a call-up and then decide to switch allegiance to African nations when they are close to the end of their careers.
The former Chelsea star went on to warn such players to stop considering African countries as their second option for international career only when they are rejected by European nations.
Speaking on “The Obi One Podcast”, Obi, a 2013 AFCON bronze medalist highlighted the fact that footballers with African roots must be proud of it whether they are born in Europe or grew up there.
“They say they wanna play for England or France or whatever it is, and then they wait. They keep waiting and keep waiting”, the 2012 UEFA Champions League winner said.
“When they get to 25 or 26 and they don’t get a call up from England, then they call Nigeria. We shouldn’t be treated like second options, we are not second options.
“If you decide you want to play for England, stick to it. Sit and wait. If you don’t get a call-up, you don’t get a call-up. But don’t wait until you’re 29 or 30 and then you call the Nigerian FA to tell them you’re ready to play for them. F*ck off mate.”
By: Pascal Amoah
