Nedum Onuoha admits he is torn over his international future.
As an England Under-21s international, the Manchester City central defender could commit himself to the Three Lions. However, the Nigerian-born defender admits the chance of playing for the country of his birth stirs up his ancestral emotions.
“It is a tough call,” he said. “I would love to play for England. But I also get a certain feeling when I see Nigeria play.
“I can imagine myself really enjoying it and wanting to be part of it. But it is not that simple. If you play for England that is fine.
“However, if I choose to play for Nigeria there would be a lot of politics involved and a lot of administrative issues.
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Nigeria have already made the youngster aware they would like him to play for them - while, until he is selected, England will not demand allegiance.
With Nigeria unlikely to make the World Cup - they need Tunisia to lose against Mozambique while they beat Kenya - the carrot of a place in South Africa cannot be dangled in front of the defender. But Onuoha, 23 tomorrow, would not have been swayed anyway, preferring instead to concentrate on his club career while the issue resolves itself.
“It is not the best time to make such a big decision, so for now I am not making one,” he said. “I would like to think I am young enough to see another World Cup. I think it is made easier because I enjoy club football. That is my main focus.
“If a time comes when I have to make a decision I will speak to a few people and hope to make the right call.”