Abraham never considered playing for Nigeria, was ‘flattered’ by NFF interest

Following his call-up to England senior team, Nigerian-born Tammy Abraham has revealed that there was never any prospect of pledging his international future to any nation other than England.

The Nigeria Football Federation had made moves to lure the 19-year old into switching his international allegiance to his country of origin,but all efforts proved abortive as the striker publicly declared in September that he is “available for selection” for England.

Speaking to reporters very recently, Abraham confirmed it has always been England for him, adding that he was however flattered by Nigeria’s interest.

Having played at the U-18, U-19 and at the U-21 levels, Abraham got his first invitation to the senior team of England ahead of their international friendly with Germany and Brazil.

“I was pretty set on England really,” said Abraham, who has scored four goals in 10 starts since joining Swansea City on loan in the summer.

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“Playing in the Premier League meant it would be nice to play in the England team as well.

“It was flattering [that Nigeria wanted me], but for me my main focus was here,” he continued, when asked if they had “rolled out the red carpet” to persuade him to represent Nigeria.

“They tried to, but like I said the main focus was England. I see myself as being a long-term England player — I am 100 percent focused here to try and get into that team.”

Abraham could make his senior debut for England in either of the upcoming games, particularly as Harry Kane has been ruled out after suffering an injury during Tottenham’s 1-0 win over Crystal Palace on Sunday.

 

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