Nigeria international winger Moses Simon has given his opinion on two players he played against in the Ligue 1, who are eligible to represent Nigeria at senior international level despite representing other countries. Last week, Simon who is the vice captain of the Super Eagles was up against on loan Arsenal forward Folarin Balogun when Nantes took on Reims. The game was decided by a late penalty converted by Balogun in the final minutes of the game. Simon in a rare chat with OwnGoalNigeria.com praised the quality of Balogun who has eight goals this season already and said he wish he commits his international future to Nigeria. He is presently an U21 international for England and was even involved with them during the last international break. ” Balogun? I must admit is a very good striker and if it’s by my wish, I want him to play for Nigeria. It’s normal every player wants more good players in his team. Presently he plays for England and we have to respect his decision and hope for a change of mind”, he said. When pressed forward on Rennes midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu, the 18 year old boy wonder who has taken Ligue 1 by storm this season and presently plays for the U19 of France. He qualifies to represent Nigeria through his father. ” Contrary to reports when I met with his father, we didn’t have any discussion about playing for Nigeria. Another Nigeria international Elderson Echjiele was there as well. It was just a normal discussion after the game and he did very well like he has been doing lately. He is still very young and I believe he has the best people to advice him properly. Deep down I wish he plays for Nigeria but it’s up to him”, he said on the Rennes midfielder.
Alphonsus Odumu 5 w
Simon