This is kind of my hope too. Nigerian immigrants/2nd gen children use the US' sporting infrastructure to develop their talent but choose Nigeria when it's time for national duty. Not guaranteed to work but it's possible.
If the players don't feel valued outside of the token gesture of can you represent our country. They will go to where they will feel valued and returning sons will get more fanfare, like with Zaha. Also it depends on the relationships they've built with other players in the age groups. Playing with their friends as oppose to strangers.
Take Iwobi, who had to play for Nigeria at senior level. If you're related to JJ, there is no other option, too much lineage.
One issue is these dual-nationality players often get nation tied for a European country early but don't really go on to feature prominently on the National teams. Fikayo Tomori and Tammy come to mind. Both had a run in Chelsea that got them nods for the 3 Lions but since their first couple of runs in the side, they've been passengers for England.
Tomori could have been a great addition to our back line and Abraham gives us depth at the 9.
Tomori has barely played over the last 12 months. IDK if he was injured for a period. But if he isn't playing regular football he is no help to anyone regardless of what flag he decides to rep. He is still a developing player just because CB don't mature till 25-26. And he hasn't had the tutor to guide him thru games.
Tammy, I like his effort and he'll score goals because he takes up good positions. But not a fan overall I think it's his reading of the game, I don't like. As for England when he was picked he probably saw himself as back up to Kane especially when he was scoring at the start of last season. But with Ings back fit and DCL scoring and brings a physical presence to disrupt defenders Tammy down the pecking order for now. That can all change considering Kane and Ings are good for an injury or 2.
The Nigerian FA have to get Eze and Lookman on board. I would like them to play for the England senior team, but there is just too much talent in their positions, where they aren't going to get a fair chance. Which is a bit different in Tomori case, where if he can play regularly and perform he has a chance of cementing a place.
With the World Cup next year I do think Eze and Lookman will pick Naija tbh.
