Youngster Obafemi commits to ROI

Southampton forward Obafemi was born in Dublin to Nigerian parents, but grew up in London, and as such, he is technically eligible to represent any of the three countries at senior international level. 

However the younster announced this week that he wants to play for  his country of birth, the Republic of Ireland, and now, the debate has been closed.

Obafemi has represented the Republic of Ireland at various youth levels, but due to his allegiance not being fully confirmed until his competitive debut, there has been much speculation in recent months as to which country the player would represent going forward. 

18 year old Obafemi was called up to the Ireland squad on November 6, for the country's international friendly with neighbours Northern Ireland, and the UEFA Nations League match with Denmark. 

 

November 15, 2018

Playerworks CSM, a football talent agency, released a statement on behalf of the player this week. It read as follows: 'Due to current speculation surrounding Michael Obafemi and as Michael's representatives, we would like to go on record to say that we are not in talks with either Nigeria or England, nor is it something we have ever pursued'.

It continued; 'Since Mark O'Toole spotted Michael early on, he, along with the other staff at Ireland, have given Michael a great opportunity, which he has enjoyed immensely. Michael was born in Ireland, so this is the country he naturally wants to play for.'

The statement concluded by confirming Obafemi's choice to play for Ireland, writing: 'Martin O'Neill has shown great faith in Michael and he wants to repay that faith by helping the team achieve success. Michael is 100 per cent committed to Ireland and is looking forward to an exciting future with the national team."