Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo. Photo by IMAGO
Former Arsenal goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo’s international switch to Nigeria remains unfinished, despite growing expectations that he could soon join the Super Eagles setup, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has clarified that the paperwork for his change of allegiance is still in progress and has not yet been finalised by FIFA.
Recent speculation suggested that the former Arsenal shot-stopper was already cleared to represent Nigeria, but senior NFF officials have now moved to cool the excitement.
While Okonkwo is firmly on the federation’s radar, the governing body insists the process is ongoing and that no official approval has been granted yet.
NFF confirms Ex-Arsenal player’s switch in progress
NFF Head of International Competitions, Dayo Enebi, stressed that Okonkwo’s case is still being handled by the relevant authorities.
“The process is still ongoing and has not been completed yet,” Enebi said Footy Africa. “Okonkwo is one we are looking at, but as of today, his international switch has not been concluded.”
Enebi further revealed that the goalkeeping prospect is among several players being considered as the coaching crew looks to reinforce key areas of the squad.
“I can confirm that Okonkwo is definitely one of the players being primed to switch to Nigeria even though the switch is still in progress. From what I know, there are others too, as the coaching crew is looking to strengthen areas where reinforcements are needed.”
The NFF official also hinted that Okonkwo could still be invited to train with the squad ahead of the upcoming tournament in Amman, even if his paperwork is not completed in time.
“Don’t forget Ola Aina is back, and Frederick will return as well. If we add these players to the three or four new faces we hope to introduce, the team can only get stronger. I think the coach will invite Okonkwo for the tournament in Amman. It is not an official competition, so even if his switch is not completed by then, he can still come to train and familiarise himself with the team.”
Okonkwo, who has represented England at youth level, remains ineligible for competitive matches for the Super Eagles until FIFA formally approves his request to change sporting nationality.
