Former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has given his thoughts on Bukayo Saka’s decision to represent England over Nigeria, while also comparing the Arsenal winger’s situation to that of Ademola Lookman.
Saka and Lookman share similar backgrounds. Both players are Nigerian, were born in London, and had both represented England at the junior level.
However, Lookman decided to play for the Super Eagles in 2022, while Saka carried on his ascent to the top with the Three Lions.
In recent times, Mikel has been criticising players who wait until their careers are on the decline to play for Nigeria.
Mikel Obi on Saka and Lookman choices
But the former Middlesbrough player commended Saka and the Atalanta forward, saying their individual choices had paid off.
“I genuinely think players should not wait until they’re very old to represent their African roots. You have to make a decision. We want the best players to represent us, to play at the AFCON, and to represent Africa.
”I think Saka got a call up, but he’s being himself, an amazing footballer.
”He made the right decision of wanting to play for England and now he’s one of the players in the squad.
”So, fair play to him. I also think Ademola Lookman made the right decision to switch quickly to represent Nigeria, and he’s done really well.
”He played well last season and he’s such a fantastic player,” the former Nigerian captain said on his punditry duties with BeIN Sports.
Meanwhile, both players are considered one of the best forwards in the world and have made the recently released 30-man Ballon d’Or shortlist.
