Popular host of the just concluded Big Brother Naija, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, and Nigerian football fans have reacted to Bukayo Saka’s first senior call-up to the England national team, Completesports.com reports.
Saka was on Thursday included in England’s 30-man squad, ahead of their UEFA Nations League games against Belgium and Denmark international friendly with Wales.
The 19-year-old’s invitation means hopes of seeing him represent Nigeria at senior level could be finally dashed.
And following his call-up, Ebuka alongside some Nigerians took to Twitter to express their views.
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In his reaction, Ebuka described it as an Independence Day heartbreak.
“Ah! Bukayo Saka no gree for us. Gave us Independence Day heartbreak.”
Mac Henry said he fears for Saka choosing England over Nigeria because one bad game could signal the end of his international career.
“I really want Bukayo Saka to go places in his national team. But I’m scared of him too, especially ‘England’ I’d have preferred Nigeria for him. Because he’s a lot to benefit here. One bad game can cost him more callups in England.”
According to Olayinka Awoyemi, he stated that though he wished Saka picked Nigeria he holds nothing against him over his choice.
“Looking forward to a day when a player of Nigeria descent/ Dual nationality would turned down a call up from other country in favour of the Super Eagles of Nigeria! I was really hoping Bukayo Saka would done the green jersey but have nothing on him if he chooses to accept the England.”
In his views Mr Alexander backed the Arsenal youngster for his choice.
“Bukayo Saka is English and owes Nigeria no permission to represent the land he was born in and has been representing since he was a kid. OMG!
“I hope you keep up this energy when he gets into coaching or politics after his football career.
ODABI posited that choosing England over Nigeria was a wrong choice for Saka.
“And it will inevitably end in tears for him. He’s only English when he plays well. Watch the media rip into Bukayo Saka when the chips are down. He made the wrong choice.”
Ogundare Olujimi wrote:”his guy really dissed Nigeria. Can’t you just choose another to express your gratitude? I guess this is your own way of saying happy independent to Nigeria.”
According to Ozioma Kanu: “How many games would Bukayo Saka play for England. Stay on the bench for 3 to 4 friendlies/qualifiers then go into oblivion like the others. Normal.”
For KOVIK ONE NINE: “As expected, Bukayo Saka has decided to play for England.
“Lols we know history will repeat itself again. But good luck to him.”
And STEFORD said:”The three Lions have dropped (devoured) Fikayo Tomori till God knows when, now they have their hands on Bukayo Saka.
“Happy Independence Day Nigeria England is our Colonial Master.”
By James Agberebi
5 Comments
I wonder when these guys that are bundle of talents will learn.Fikayo Tomori,Ross Barkley,Dele Alli,Tammy Abraham etc,i dont just know when you will learn a lesson and take a cue from others that have come before you.Anyway,i wish you all the very best of luck
Saks has made his choice . I wish him the best. Meanwhile there are amazing talents out there who are willing to play for Nigeria . So no worries people . Super Eagles moved on
I didn’t blame him but his parent, he just put an end to the little live I have for Arsenal, I knew it’s gonna end this way anyways. So warm the bench like those before you.
One English player once said Three Lions is for white English player When he was in Arsenal. Now the player is nowhere near ARSENAL or the Three Lions. Who can Remind me his name
Saka”s best game will be this friendly games. Or one more and finish. Kelvin Akpoguma understood his stand with the German National team. He opted for Nigeria. He will enjoy more playing time because of his German style of play.