‘We are not second option’ — Mikel tells Nigerians born abroad

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28 February 2024; Mikel John Obi, Chelsea & Nigeria Legend, The Obi One Podcast, on Centre Stage during day two of Web Summit Qatar 2024 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center in Doha, Qatar. Photo by Ramsey Cardy/Web Summit Qatar via Sportsfile

Former Nigeria’s International John Mikel Obi has told Nigerians born abroad to stop treating Nigeria as a second option.

Former Chelsea midfielder made the statement while speaking on a podcast, Obione; he insisted that Nigeria should not be treated as a second option.

They say they wanna play for England or France or whatever it is, and then they wait. They keep waiting and keep waiting.

“When they get to 25 or 26 and they don’t get a call up from England, then they call Nigeria. We shouldn’t be treated like second options, we are not second options.

“If you decide you want to play for England, stick to it. Sit and wait. If you don’t get a call-up, you don’t get a call-up. But don’t wait until you’re 29 or 30 and then you call the Nigerian FA to tell them you’re ready to play for them. F*ck off, mate.”

Mikel is one of the few Nigerian players who played for the country at all levels.