Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo has addressed long-standing rumors suggesting he turned down the chance to represent Nigeria internationally, firmly stating that such claims are false.
In an interview with Nigerian journalist Oma Akatugba, the towering centre-back, born in London to Nigerian parents, clarified that while he is yet to play for the Super Eagles, he never rejected the opportunity.
“Both of those pieces of news are pretty false. I’ve never turned down Nigeria. And I’ve never had any conversations with them to say that I’ll be going to Nigeria,” he said.
The 26-year-old, who came through the ranks at Manchester City and has since impressed at West Brom, Blackburn, Fulham, and now Chelsea, has represented England at youth level from U16 to U19. However, he hasn’t been called up to the senior team.
Adarabioyo revealed that his previous focus on club stability delayed a decision on his international future:
“At the point of last season where there was a little bit of conversation, I told them I just want to focus on club football. I was in my last year at Fulham and I just wanted to have a solid run. Now I’m at Chelsea. My first year, which I wanted to concentrate on again.”
Now settled at Chelsea and fresh off a UEFA Conference League triumph, the defender says the time has come:
“And I think now is going to be the time that I need to make a decision.”
As anticipation builds, Nigerian fans will be hopeful that Adarabioyo commits to the green and white, adding depth to the Super Eagles’ defensive line.
