Bournemouth’s Ogunleye targets Nigeria call-up

Bournemouth youngster, Malachi Ogunleye, has shown his readiness to play for Nigeria.

Ogunleye has decided to represent Nigeria ahead of England, which is he is also eligible to represent through his parents. .

Having gained more experience this year playing regularly for Bournemouth’s U-18 side, he has now committed his future to Nigeria.

Ogunleye is one of the longest-serving members of the club’s academy, having first signed for the Cherries when he was 11 years old.

The midfielder is now expected to challenge for a place in Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations to be hosted by South Africa.

Speaking from his based, Ogunleye said: “I’m eager to play for Nigeria’s Flying Eagles in next year’s AFCON U-20 in South Africa.

“I know I have the ability and experience to feature for the country at the tournament. I will be glad if I have the opportunity to play for Nigeria even though I can also play for England, but the green and white colour is my favourite.”

The Flying Eagles successfully defended their crown at the WAFU B U-20 Championship in Lome, Togo last month.

Head coach, Aliyu Zubairu, said this week he would give foreign-based players the opportunity to stake their claim for a place in the team.

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