Ex-Chelsea striker Ike Ugbo makes a u-turn as he dumps Nigeria for Canada

The Genk striker had spoken of his desire to represent the three-time African champions, but he has now chosen to play for The Canucks

Former Chelsea star Ike Ugbo has decided to represent the Canadian national team ahead of Nigeria's national team.

Ugbo had initially spoken of his desire to play for the Super Eagles at next year's World Cup, saying his dad wanted him to represent the country.

However, the 23-year-old has now made a sensational u-turn after the Canadian national team announced that the Genk striker has chosen to represent them at the international level.

The youngster is in the Canada squad that will face Costa Rica and Mexico in the final round of Concacaf FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.

Canada took to their social media accounts to reveal Ugbo as their newest player under coach John Herdman.

A product of @ChelseaFC
Now shining at @KRCGenkOfficial

23-year-old striker Iké Ugbo / @IUgbo is now officially a #CANMNT player.

Welcome to the brotherhood, Iké 🇨🇦🔥 pic.twitter.com/MP0o706aFh

— Canada Soccer (@CanadaSoccerEN) November 4, 2021

It's a surprise move, given Ugbo has revealed many times his wish to play for Nigeria. The Genk striker, who is a product of Chelsea's academy, was born in England to a Nigerian father.

He represented the Three Lions at the youth level, winning the U-20 Toulon tournament in 2017.