Why I Chose England Over Nigeria – Bukayo Saka

The Arsenal youngster could make his senior England debut in the coming days having been invited to the Three Lions set-up by Gareth Southgate ahead of the UEFA Nations League games against Belgium and Denmark

New Three Lions invitee Bukayo Saka says he remains incredibly proud of his Nigerian roots and reveals he is a big fan of the Super Eagles.

But the Gunners wingback believes he has made the right decision to snub Nigeria and commit his international future to England because Gareth Southgate’s side could be close to success at a major tournament.

Born in England to Nigerian parents, Saka came through the ranks at Arsenal and represented England at different youth levels.

But the 19-year-old forward was still eligible to represent Nigeria’s senior team, with the three-time African champions not hiding their desire to add the youngster to their playing ranks.

Saka, though, will never wear the green-and-white after his latest decision, and the Arsenal lad is convinced playing for England is a reward for the efforts and sacrifices of his family.

“I feel like I’m really, really proud of my Nigerian heritage,” Saka told Sky Sports, as per The Metro.

“I always still watch Nigeria’s games where I can, and I wish them all the best and support them all the way.

“But I’ve seen the process of how England are transforming, and I think in the future they’re going to do great stuff. I feel like it was right for me to choose England.

“My dad was born here, my mum was born in Nigeria, but they both grew up in Nigeria and met each other in Nigeria.

“They came over, and when they came to England, it wasn’t easy for them because obviously, it’s a new country. It’s really cold for them!

“But they adapted well, and as soon as they had me and my brother, they always left everything out the way and put us first.

“Especially my football career, my dad always pushed me, he took me to training on days where sometimes it would take two hours to get to training, so I’ll always be so grateful for my parents for the work they’ve done for me.”

Saka capped a fine week with the opening goal in Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Sheffield United at the Emirates on Sunday.