Interim Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen has addressed speculation surrounding Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo and his potential inclusion in Nigeria's squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, Soccernet.ng reports.
Born in London to Nigerian parents, Adarabioyo remains eligible to represent both England and Nigeria.
Despite growing reports suggesting that Adarabioyo is set for his first call-up to the Super Eagles, Eguavoen has clarified that no direct communication has taken place with the 27-year-old defender.
“I didn’t speak with Tosin, but he’s a good player,” Eguavoen told Premium Times.
“He’s one of the players we’re monitoring. Every Nigerian playing worldwide has the right to play for Nigeria, including Tosin.”
However, after being left out of England's squad for the 2024 European Championship, it is believed the Chelsea centre-back could be leaning towards committing his international future to Nigeria.
While Eguavoen confirmed that Adarabioyo is being monitored, the defender’s inclusion in the Super Eagles squad for the upcoming AFCON doubleheader against Libya is highly unlikely.
Instead, Eguavoen is expected to stick with the defensive trio of William Troost-Ekong, Semi Ajayi, and Calvin Bassey, who helped Nigeria secure a 3-0 win over Benin Republic and a goalless draw against Rwanda earlier in September.
“Same approach, the players were willing to do it (then) and they still want to do it, and it’s completely up to them. We can only advise them,” Eguavoen said, indicating his intent to maintain consistency in his defensive selections.
The Super Eagles currently sit atop Group D with four points from two matches and will look to solidify their position with back-to-back victories against Libya next month, which could seal their qualification for AFCON 2024.
