Italian Serie A side Palermo have signed Nigerian youngster Nosa Iyobosa Edokpolor from Austria side FC Alpe Adria on an initial six-month deal.
Edokpolor, 18, was the cynosure of all eyes in a friendly game last year where he dazzled in attacking midfield. The performance earned him a trial at the Sicily-based side where he impressed the team officials.
However, he will play with the club’s Primavera side and will only be promoted to the senior team depending on his performance in the next six months.
The youngster is eligible to play for Austria, the country of his birth, and Nigeria, through his parentage. He has already represented Austria at Youth level.
In order to prevent a repeat of David Alaba saga, the Nigeria Football Federation will have to keep an eye on the player. David Alaba, who has recorded great success at Bayern Munich, was neglected by the country’s sports officials and opted to represent the same nation, Austria.
About the Author: Arinze Ude (@arturozinga) is an aspiring cancer research scientist with a master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences (Haematology). He is keen on building partnerships and managing the careers of Nigerian sportsmen and women. He blogs at http://arturozinga.wordpress.com
