Former England captain and now Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has expressed his delight in decision to represent Nigeria at international level and eyes the AFCON title after coming short in a final earlier in the year.
The Nottingham Forest right-back, born and raised in the United Kingdom represented England in the youth categories, Under-16s, Under-17s, Under-18s, Under-19s and Under-20s between 2011 and 2016. He was also named captain during these period.
In 2017, Ola Aina decided to represent Nigeria after approaches by the Nigerian Football Federation, NFF. He made his debut later that year in October, as a substitute for Elderson Echiéjilé in a 1-0 win over Zambia in a FIFA World Cup qualifying match.
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The 28-year-old has become a mainstay in the Super Eagles team since 2019, racking up more than 40 appearances. He also played a pivotal part in getting Nigeria to the AFCON final in Ivory Coast earlier in the year.
Former England captain Ola Aina Eyes AFCON title
Speaking during the Super Eagles parley with the media on Wednesday, the former Chelsea Academy player expressed his delight to play for Nigeria, despite his eligibility to represent the Three Lions of England.
“It’s a privilege to play for the Super Eagles. It’s a dream for a lot of Nigerians. To be selected is a privilege so I’m always happy,” said Aina.
“I want to win a trophy with the national team, whatever trophy, World Cup or Africa Cup of Nations. I think winning a trophy with the Super Eagles and with this team that we have now will be the best thing.” He concluded.
Nigeria take on Mediterranean Knights of Libya in the Nest of Champions on Friday and Aina will again be in action.
