Nedum Onuoha has declared his aim to turn his back on England in order to go to the World Cup with Nigeria.
The Manchester City defender has captained England’s Under-21 side, and played 21 times for them.
Soaring Eagle? Manchester City defender Nedum Onuoha could end up facing Fernando Torres at the World Cup this summer.
But Nigeria-born Onuoha is eligible to play for the Super Eagles as he has never won a senior England cap - and he plans to switch allegiance as he fears being overlooked by Three Lions boss Fabio Capello.
'It will be flattering to be approached by Nigeria,' the 23-year-old said. 'No-one has spoken to me since the former manager Berti Vogts made an informal approach a couple of years ago.
'I follow Nigerian football all the time. I’m the same as any other person - if you are born there that’s where your heart is. I have not been approached by any official from Nigeria but if I am, I will weigh up my options and consult my family.
'But it’s more than a possibility that I will agree to play for the Eagles.'
Nigeria coach Lars Lagerback indicated he is ready to call Onuoha into his squad.
'I don’t close my door on any player,' the Swede said. 'We have started taking a look at Nigerian players, and we will continue to look at the best players we can use for the World Cup.
'I already have a shortlist of 45 players we can choose from, who I believe are the best Nigeria has. Most of them are from Europe. Any player who is outside the list, young or old, wherever he is playing, has a chance to be in the team if he can show he is better than what I have.'
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