Eligible to play internationally for the United States, Canada, or Nigeria, Major League Soccer star Ayo Akinola may decide to represent The Stars and Stripes.
Toronto FC kid wonder, Akinola has declared his affection for the United States men national team, stating that he would jump at the opportunity to feature for the six-time CONCACAF champions should head coach Gregg Berhalter extend an invitation to him.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, the 20-year-old forward has already represented the United States at youth level, smashing in a combined 36 goals in 42 games for the U-15, U-17, and U-20 teams.
However, Akinola, who also is a Canadian citizen having been raised there, can still play for the Super Eagles having been born to Nigerian parents.
The youngster has made an excellent start to the new MLS season. His five goals in just two games including a hat-trick have projected him has the standout star of the opening rounds of the league campaign.
Akinola’s fantastic performances have yet again raised the issue of which country he would commit his international allegiance to, with the youngster bending towards the USMNT.
“I think for me, I’d love to get called to the national team, but at the same time, I can only control what I can control,” Akinola told SiriusXM FC via the official MLS soccer website.
“At the end of the day, it’s the coach’s decision. For me, if I do my own part and I do it right, I’m hopeful a call will come. But if not, then I’ll continue to do my thing at the club level.”
Akinola will hope to keep up his brilliant form when Toronto return to action on Tuesday at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Field 17 to trade tackles with New England.
