Chelsea striker Kevin Oghenetega Tamaraebi Bakumo-Abraham, known as Tammy Abraham has denied reports that he is set to switch international allegiances to Nigeria in a bid to play at next year’s World Cup. He insisted, “I remain available for selection for England.”
The 19-year-old, currently on loan to Swansea, played for England at this summer’s European Under-21 Championship in Poland but remains eligible for Nigeria through his parents.
Last week, Amaju Pinnick, the president of the Nigerian Football Federation, said he was looking to influence Tammy to switch allegiance, through to his close relationship with Abraham’s father, who is a childhood friend.
Pinnick claimed on Thursday that Abraham has agreed to play for Nigeria, adding that they have now begun the process of applying to Fifa to transfer his registration. However, Abraham denied the claim and said he remains available for Aidy Boothroyd’s squad.
The Guardian quoted Pinnick as saying:
“I had a very honest and productive discussion with Tammy and his father last week. It’s been a long process but I can tell you authoritatively he has agreed to play for Nigeria and not England. He and his parents have started the necessary documents to effect the switch.
“Clearly he understands he stands a better chance playing for the Super Eagles. With his talent he has the ability to fight for a place in the Nigeria squad and if we make it to Russia, he would contest for a chance to represent his fatherland.”
In response, Tammy Abraham said, “Contrary to reports I would like to clarify I have not agreed to switch my national team allegiance. 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 I have made a decision to change my international representation is incorrect and wide of the mark. I have informed the FA that I remain available for selection for England.”
