The former West Brom striker was eligible to play for both Uzbekistan and Russia, but he decided to play for Nigeria which was the country of his father.
Odemwingie was born in Uzbekistan to a Nigerian father and a Russian mother but revealed he was inspired to play for Nigeria after the Dream Team won gold in the football event of the Atlanta Olympics in 1996.
The 37-year-old who retired from football last April revealed he was laughed at when he told his friends he is going to play for the Super Eagles.
Odemwingie revealed this in a post on his Instagram page. The former Stoke City revealed he decided to share the story to inspire youths. Odemwingie also revealed he was laughed at when he spoke of his Premier League dream.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5-gEnIBETG/
He advised younger ones not to look for validation from outsiders, but they should continue to do what they believe in.
Odemwingie made 51 appearances for Nigeria, scoring 10 goals. He represented the country at two World Cup finals.
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