Super Eagles: Ex-Chelsea star takes first step to dump France for Nigeria

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle might get a new option to pick from, as a player with dual nationality is set to switch allegiances to Nigeria, Soccernet.ng reports.

This comes as former Chelsea midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu has taken his first few steps to switch allegiances from France to Nigeria.

The 22-year-old midfielder was born in France to Nigerian parents, and he represented France at youth level.

However, he is 22 now and cannot play youth-level football anymore. He is due for the senior team, but he is yet to get an official call-up to the senior team Les Bleus. But according to FIFA rules, a player can still switch allegiances to Nigeria. As a result, the Super Eagles door is still open.

It appears that the former Chelsea man is willing to try that route. In the summer, he was in Nigeria, and was even spotted playing football with Super Eagles star Kelechi Iheanacho in Owerri.

Now, reports have emerged that he has started the process of acquiring his Nigerian passport which will make him a bonafide Nigerian.

How Does Lesley Ugochukwu Fit Into the Super Eagles?

Once Ugochukwu gets his Nigerian passport, the next thing for him will be to switch his nationality with world football governing body FIFA so he can start playing for the Super Eagles.

A player of Ugochukwu's profile would be a good fit for Eric Chelle's system and he can give Nigeria a few good years.

The 22-year-old is originally a defensive midfielder, but he is more of a box-to-box player. He is physically strong, has composure on the ball, and is a decent carrier. The Rennes academy product also has the work rate which is needed to thrive in Chelle's system.

His switch to the Super Eagles would provide healthy competition and depth in Nigeria's midfield, and he can also chip in with the odd goal.

Ugochukwu just completed a loan move from Burnley to Galatasaray, and he will be looking to produce top performances for his new employers.