'We won't beg anybody to play for Nigeria' - NFF President Pinnick says after meeting Eberechi Eze's Father

Eberechi Eze in action for Crystal Palace during their Premier League encounter with Manchester United at The Old Trafford on Saturday. Crystal Palace won Man United 3-1. Photo: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

NFF President Amaju Pinnick said he is in contact with the Eberechi Eze over the possibility of switching allegiance to Nigeria.


The former CAF 1st vice President said he has spoken to the family of the Crystal Palace attacking midfielder, but he maintained that the 22-year-old needs time to make decisions on his international future.

Eze was born in England to Nigerian parents, although he has played for his country of birth at the junior level, he’s still eligible to represent Nigeria as well.

“I have met Eze’s father, we had dinner and argued about it. I have also met with Eze when he came to see me some time ago, but the truth is that we have to allow them time to decide.” He told the sun sports.

Pinnick maintained that the Federation won’t beg any player to switch allegiance to Nigeria.

“We won’t beg anybody to play for Nigeria. We can only talk to them to come to play for fatherland if they wish to. But, we are not going to go cap in hand to beg anybody. We have many players even in our domestic league.” he said. Brila