AFCON qualifiers: Can Chelsea’s Tosin Adarabioyo make Super Eagles’ squad list for Libya clash

Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo has been linked with a potential switch from representing England to donning the colours of the Nigerian Senior Men’s National Team, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 27-year-old, who has previously featured for England’s youth teams, has impressed with his performances at Fulham, catching the eye of top clubs such as AC Milan, and Manchester United.

Despite his standout displays, his chances of securing a spot in England’s senior squad dimmed after Gareth Southgate overlooked him for the Euro 2024 squad.

This development has reignited discussions around Adarabioyo potentially representing Nigeria, his parents’ country.

Reports circulating in Nigerian media suggest that the centre-back has now decided to commit his international future to Nigeria, although no official confirmation has been made.

The prospect of Adarabioyo joining the Super Eagles has sparked debate among Nigerian football fans, with many wondering if the Chelsea defender could be called up for Nigeria’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Libya. Notably, Adarabioyo has yet to make a senior appearance for England, leaving the door open for a switch to Nigeria.

Interim Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen, who will oversee the qualifiers, has previously been invited by Adarabioyo to watch his games at Fulham FC. This past connection has fueled speculation that Eguavoen could include him in the squad for the crucial October clash.

However, speaking to Premium Times, Eguavoen clarified that while Adarabioyo is on their radar, no conversations have taken place recently.

“I haven’t spoken with Tosin, but he’s a good player,” Eguavoen said. “We’re monitoring him, and like every Nigerian playing abroad, he has the right to represent Nigeria.”

With the Super Eagles’ squad announcement yet to be made, all eyes are now on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for confirmation.

As it stands, Adarabioyo’s international future remains undecided, and anything can happen before the final squad list is revealed.