The former Germany youth international is yet to receive a call-up for the Nigeria national team despite several impressive showings in the Bundesliga
Hoffenheim midfielder Diadie Samassekou has expressed the belief that his club teammate Kevin Akpoguma can help improve the Super Eagles.
Akpoguma was born in Germany and has represented his country of birth from the U-16 level to the U-21s.
The 25-year-old centre-back is, however, eligible to play for Nigeria via his father, with reports indicating that he was open to a switch if his chances with Germany go dim. The defender last played for any German team three years ago.
But getting the chance to play for the Super Eagles may not be as easy as imagined with the likes of Udinese’s William Troost-Ekong, on-loan Wigan defender Leon Balogun, West Brom’s Semi Ajayi and the Leganes duo of Kenneth Omeruo and Chidozie Awaziem all jostling for that two spots at the heart of the defence.
However, Mali international Samassekou believes Akpoguma has the quality to be a great addition to both Nigerian and African football.
“I think he would be a great help for [Nigeria],” Samassekou told Goal.
“So for me, it would be better if they didn’t have Akpo.
“[I haven’t really asked him about it] because I’m not Nigerian.
“But for the development and improvement of African football, it would be great if he goes there.”
Akpoguma has been with Hoffenheim since 2013 and has made 50 appearances for the senior team despite going out on a couple of loan deals.