Nigerian Players abroad Nigeria : Gernot Rohr Willing To enlist Kevin Akpoguma Among Super Eagles

The German coach, since his arrival in Nigeria, has been implementing the process of players with dual nationalities. Since August 2016, the number of players born overseas in the senior national team has risen. Ola Aina, Brian Idowu, Tyronne Ebuehi, Joe Aribo, Maduka Okoye, Kingsley Ehizibue and Cyril Dessers have joined the Super Eagles.

With new FIFA rule, Nigerian has been expressing strong desire to enlist as many players abroad in the national team. Playing for Nigeria may have an addition as Coach Gernot Rohr is looking at the prospect of Germany Youth Captain, Kevin Akpoguma to commit his international future to the Super Eagles.

Akpoguma, 25, who plays for Bundesliga side Hoffenheim, has a German mother and a Nigerian father. He is thus eligible to play for the three-time African champions.

And, despite 62 Germany caps from Under-16 to Under-21 level, the defender has opted to capitalise on the FIFA rules which allows him to switch allegiances.

I had a good conversation with him and his family while watching several games in Hoffenheim. After the matches we met and could talk. I presented our projects and I could speak about the team, about this incredible period in the Super Eagles and my vision for the team.” Rohr told BBC Sport yesterday.

He was sold on this and would love to be a part of the team and play in big international competitions like the Africa Cup of Nations or even the World Cup.” He continued.

Born in the western town of Neustadt an der Weinstraße, Akpoguma started his professional career at Karlsruhe SC. And he also played for Fortuna Düsseldorf.

The 2014 European U19 Championship winner captained Germany at the 2015 Under-20 World Cup in New Zealand. The young defender helped them beat Nigeria 1-0 in the second round.


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