Newcastle United striker, Shola Ameobi, has said he would love to represent Nigeria at next year’s World Cup in Brazil.
Ameobi has made himself available again for selection after rejecting Stephen Keshi’s invitation to the AFCON party in January due to a clause in his club contract.
Ameobi made his debut for Nigeria in Super Eagles 3-1 friendly win over Venezuela in Miami, Florida in November 2012 – in which he set up his side’s third goal.
Ameobi said, “It would be incredible for me to represent Nigeria again. And to help them qualify for the World Cup would make it extra special. Every player is looking to play at the World Cup. I think we’ve got every chance of qualifying.”
The former England Under-21 international who has been with Newcastle his entire career had received clearance from FIFA a year earlier to switch his allegiance to country of his birth. The clause in his club contract which threatened to scupper his International ambitions “is no longer in effect”.
“My full focus is now on helping the Super Eagles to be successful. I’ve got to get into this incredibly talented team, make sure I give my best, show my experience and make a significant contribution,” he said.
“I made my (Nigeria) debut at 31, now here I am and hopefully my experience will enable me to develop at this level. Every player is looking to play at the World Cup. I think we’ve got every chance of qualifying – but we must fight and earn the right to be there.”
