Nigeria have been handed a massive boost ahead of the Indonisia 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup with Pelumi Maxwell revealing his dream to play for the West African nation instead of England.
The English born right full back is mostly compared to Manchester City star Jao Cancelo for his speed, energy and offensive capabilities, as well as his technique, dribbling skills, creativity and crossing ability.
Maxwell born to Nigeria parents in England, attracted interest from the Three Lions after his rise with League One side Oxford United but is poised to represent the three-time African champions, beginning at the U20 level.
"It has always been a dream to wear the famous green and white colours of Nigeria. My Dad loves Nigeria alot and would be proud if I play for them, starting from the Flying Eagles," Maxwell told media.
"I like to express myself and work very hard on and off the pitch. I have great passion for winning and always do everything not to lose games. I want to be a patriotic and committed footballer, who will never turn his back on the nation, when given the opportunity to play for the good people of Nigeria.
I believe I have what it takes to play for Nigeria National U-20 side, the Flying Eagles and possibly the Super Eagles in the near future.
"I definitely have a lot of great qualities I would bring to the team. My defensive attributes is one of the best, as a player, I love to operate from the right side and make good crosses for attackers to score, while recovering very well at full back."
The 19-year-old defender is the currently the captain of Oxford United U-23 side and has further expressed his passion to create great and memorable memories in the upcoming campaign of the Flying Eagles.
"I also love to bring my winning mentality to the team, As the captain of Oxford United U-23 side, I have been able to grow as a player, even though am just 19 years old. It has really helped me psychologically and I hope to bring that maturity to the national team, if given the opportunity," he added.
"I also understand that the competition for places in the squad wouldn't be easy, but I am a fighter, who's always prepared for a battle and I believe I will thrive with my talent and great attributes."
Maxwell aims to follow in the footsteps of Ademola Lookman who completed his switch to play Nigeria and set to make his senior debut against face Ghana five years after winning the FIFA U20 World Cup with England in 2017.
As the Super Eagles battle the Black Stars in a playoff doubleheader for a spot at the Qatar 2022 World Cup, the teen sensation is upbeat about the chances of Nigeria to silence their West African rivals to qualify for global showpiece.
"We are definitely going to qualify for the World Cup, because we have quality players that can push us the the World Cup and the Black Stars can't stop us from achieving that aim," he ethused.
"I believe we will also do exceptionally well at the World Cup, because I have faith in the team," he concluded.
