CHELSEA defender Tosin Adarabioyo has admitted that he will soon have to decide whether his international future lies with England or Nigeria.
The 27-year-old has yet to receive an international call-up for either his nation of birth, England, or parentage, Nigeria, with the World Cup taking place in the United States in 2026.
Asked about his hopes for playing international football, Adarabioyo said: “The World Cup means it is a decision I need to take sooner rather than later. It is a conversation we will have and we will see how it goes.”
The centre-back, born in Manchester, has been open to playing for England, representing the country from under-16s to under-19s, and being on Gareth Southgate’s long list while playing at Fulham. However, he has yet to receive a formal call-up.
In terms of the Super Eagles of Nigeria, Adarabioyo has previously denied turning down any call-ups in the past.
BBC reported today that there was caution in making any decisions after his recent move to Chelsea, with the defender publicly stating he wanted to focus on club football this season.
Adarabioyo is proud to have familial ties with Nigeria and last year his camp received informal contact from them.
Now, with stability at Chelsea after playing 39 games this season, Adarabioyo is approaching decision time should a call-up arise.
Adarabioyo, who has been pictured multiple times sporting Super Eagles retro jerseys as casual wear, would not be the first England-born player to feature for Nigeria.
Efan Ekoku, Shola Ameobi, Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina and Ademola Lookman all have featured for the Super Eagles despite being born or raised in the United Kingdom.
On the other hand, several players with Nigerian heritage have opted for England, including Bukayo Saka, Tammy Abraham, Fikayo Tomori and Eberechi Eze.