“My favourite meal is moi-moi” – England star reveals her Nigerian heritage

Leicester City player of the season Ashleigh Plumptre has spoken of her affection for the Super Falcons, her admiration for a few Nigerian stars, and her love for the culture, food, and music of her father’s ancestral home.

In an interview with the BBC Africa, Plumptre confirmed that despite appearing 30 times for England at youth level, she would jump at the chance to play for Nigeria at senior international level.

Plumptre has been following the Super Falcons – Africa’s most successful team with nine continental titles – for a while and holds former Arsenal and Liverpool star Asisat Oshoala as the iconic face of Nigerian female football.

The 23-year-old helped Leicester City gained promotion to the elite women division, and she admits that she sees Nigeria’s Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho as role models.

More than anything, though, is the connection the former England youth international has with the culture of Nigeria, despite never having visited the West African nation.

Plumptre reveals her love for Nigerian songs and foods while name-checking legendary Yoruba musician King Sunny Ade as one of her favourites. 

And while Jollof rice holds a special place in her heart, Plumptre admits that nothing beats moi-moi, a native dish of steamed and flavoured cakes made from ground beans.

“I listen to a lot of music, but my favourite genre is classic 90s R&Bs, the stuff my dad grew up listening to are what I listen to now,” she explained.

“But with regards Nigerian songs I like, I will go with veteran and legendary musician King Sunny Ade because I’ve heard some of his records.

“I really enjoy the Nigerian Jollof rice, fish stew but my favourite meal is moi-moi.”

Plumptre first joined Leicester City as an eight-year-old and returned in January 2020 to play a vital role as the Foxes won the FA Women’s Championship title this season.