Former Newcastle star striker Sammy Ameobi joined the Flying Eagles of Nigeria in 2011 and he was given some game-time in two friendly games against Saudi Arabia and Egypt.
Just when Nigerians thought that they had captured the services of a foreign-born player, Sammy surprisingly turned his back on the West African team when he honored England’s call-up to their U21 team.
He made his England debut in the same year as he was utilized against Iceland and Belgium U21 teams during the European U21 Championship qualifiers.
Sammy went on to feature in five matches for the Young Lions of England but he couldn’t progress to the Three Lions team.
Some years after his England debut, Shola Ameobi’s younger brother decided to re-commit his international future to Nigeria.
Unfortunately, Sammy is nowhere close to recording his first Super Eagles appearance due to some reasons, which are discussed below.
He’s Currently Out Of Form
The striker cum winger isn’t the same player he was during his days with the Magpies, no thanks to his immense dip in form.
The 27-year-old played a total of 30 Championship games for Bolton Wanderers during the recently concluded season, and he managed just four goals.
Rohr Has Better Options
Nigeria is blessed with numerous young talents, hence, Rohr has no reason to force an off-form player into his team ahead of AFCON.
Odion Ighalo, Victor Osimhen, Paul Onuachu, and Taiwo Awoniyi are in the best form of their respective careers, therefore Sammy’s chances of playing for Nigeria are very slim.
Age Is Not On His Side
Sammy is in his late 20s which signifies that he is not getting any younger and his hope of emulating his elder brother remains uncertain.
