Kelvin Oghenetega Tamaraebi Bakumo-Abraham, also known as Tammy Abraham has denied reports that suggest he has switched his International allegiance to Nigeria.
The 19-year-old Chelsea striker has distanced himself from claims of a potential switch from England to Nigeria despite admitting to have met the Nigerian Football Federation president, Amaju Pinnick.
Amaju has promised the youngster a place in the Nigerian Squad provided they qualify for next year’s World Cup, Russia 2018.
The Chelsea striker who is currently on loan at Swansea is yet to make a first-team cap for England, although, he has appeared in nine (9) under-21 games.
Abraham has scored three (3) goals in nine Under-21 games for England.
He was born in London but he is eligible to play for Nigeria due to his Father’s Nationality.
Abraham said “I can confirm I met the President of the NFF after our last game against Tottenham at Wembley on Saturday given he is a friend of my father.”
“However, any suggestion that I have made a decision to change my international representation is incorrect and wide off the mark.”
“I have informed The FA that I remain available for selection for England.”
Contrary to Abraham’s version of the meeting with Pinnick, the NFF president seems to be convinced of Abraham’s switch.
Pinnick said in an interview:
‘It’s been a long process but I can tell you authoritatively that he has agreed to play for Nigeria and not England. He and his parents have started the necessary documents to affect the switch.
“Clearly he knows he stands a better chance playing for the Super Eagles than playing for England. With his talent he has the ability to fight for a place in the Nigeria squad, by God’s grace we make it to Russia, and then he would contest for a chance to represent his fatherland.”
Swansea boss, Paul Clement expressed his opinion concerning the issue and said he would prefer the youngster playing for England despite interests from Nigeria.
He said “hopefully he stays with the English national team,” Clement said.
“There would be no influence from me, if he seeks advice, I’ll be there to give him some but the decision is left between him and his family.”
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