The versatile former Queens Park Rangers ace can play as a winger, a wing-back, and a right-back and could become a key component of Jose Peseiro’s squad
New Super Eagles right-back Bright Osayi-Samuel has made some startling revelations regarding his decision to play international football for Nigeria.
Born in Okija to Nigerian parents 24 years ago, Osayi-Samuel emigrated to England when he was barely ten.
The full-back has since developed into one of the most accomplished defenders in the Turkish league.
Last week, Osayi-Samuel received his first international call-up, and on Thursday, November 17, the right-back made his full debut for the Super Eagles in the 4-0 defeat to Portugal in a friendly.
The Fenerbahce defender was Nigeria’s best player on the night, even winning a penalty that Emmanuel Dennis missed.
And in an interview with the Independent (as per Fotospor), Osayi-Samuel revealed he was so desperate to play international football he would have played for England or Turkey if Nigeria had not come calling.
“I have never played in the lower age categories in England. I have not played in Nigeria, either. I went on the field for the first time at the age of 24. I even thought of playing for Turkey.”
Osayi-Samuel’s Manchester United connection
Osayi-Samuel signed his first professional contract for Blackpool in 2015 after impressing in the club’s academy.
But before then the Nigeria international revealed he had the chance to end up at Manchester United.
The youngster’s brilliance at the lower age grade competitions had caught the attention of United’s Scout John McNab who wanted to take him to Manchester.
But Osayi-Samuel’s parents were able to convince him that signing for Blackpool was a better career choice and he snubbed United.
“He (McNab) wanted to take me to United but I also talked to a coach at Blackpool,” Osayi-Samuel said.
“I talked to my parents and they said I have a much better chance of succeeding at Blackpool.”
