Ashleigh Plumptre: What father of ex-Leicester City star said on Nigeria switch

Super Falcons and Al-Ittihad Ladies defender, Ashleigh Megan Plumptre, represented England at youth level before switching allegiance to play for the Nigerian National team, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 27-year-old was cleared to play for the nine-time African Champions in 2021, before making her official debut the following year.

Since then, Plumptre has played in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup and the WAFCON 2024 tournament for Nigeria, although she missed the 2024 Olympics in Paris due to a foot injury after helping the team qualify under Randy Waldrum.

Her Father, Tim Plumptre, who also doubles as her agent, revealed he's proud of how far his daughter has grown since she made the decision to represent Nigeria.

 

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In an interview with CAF Online, Tim revealed his delight with his daughter's performance in the WAFCON 2024 tournament, especially after she missed the Olympics.

“Super happy because it’s only been 15 months since her foot surgery and I wasn’t entirely sure how her body would react and recover.

“She worked so hard in her rehabilitation and was desperate to represent Nigeria in last year’s Olympic Games, but she couldn’t recover in time.

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“That was so disappointing for her because it was always her childhood dream to play in an Olympics, but being able to be fully fit for the WAFCON is fantastic, and she is going to do everything in her power to win this competition for Nigeria.

“I never have any doubts in her performances as I know her capabilities, they are always at the top. She has worked so hard for so long, and this is her way of life.

“It’s amazing that she’s been recognised for her performances in this competition.”

Tim also acknowledged the bravery and sacrifice in Ashleigh’s decision to switch her national allegiance from England to Nigeria.

“Incredibly proud, as she’s had to put a lot of pressure upon herself when she could’ve taken an easier path by remaining within the England setup.

“Statistics bear out the minutes she played representing Nigeria, and she’s earned this right through sheer hard work and determination, as there are so many talented players on the squad.”

“It was absolutely vital for me to consciously raise Ashleigh with an understanding of her heritage. I took her to spend time with her grandfather, Harry Dotun Plumptre (RIP), and as many of her extended Nigerian family as possible.

“As a little girl, I made it a point to take her to New York, California, and London to visit her uncles, aunties, and cousins.

“This exposure was essential, as she wouldn’t encounter many Nigerians in her day-to-day life.

“I wanted to ensure that she knew about Nigeria and her Nigerian family, and she has always been proud to embrace this aspect of her identity.”

Ultimately, Tim's sacrifices paid off as Plumptre fell in love with the Nigerian football team across several levels, and now, the same raw emotion is palpable whenever she steps onto the pitch for the Super Falcons.

“Even at school, Ashleigh followed the women’s U-17, U-19, and senior women’s Super Falcons.

“Family means everything to Ashleigh, and that is why she treats her teammates as an extended family.

“This connection is evident both on and off the pitch, especially in the way she interacts with her Nigerian teammates when they score. She truly loves this team,” he concluded.

The former Leicester City defender has always been appreciative of the love shown to her by Nigerians and promised to always make them proud with her performances on the pitch.