Ozoh and Azeez strengthen Chelle’s recruitment project
Nigeria’s senior national team, the Super Eagles, have received a significant boost following reports that two England-born players, David Ozoh and Femi Azeez, have agreed to represent the West African nation at international level.
The development comes as part of an ongoing recruitment drive led by head coach Eric Chelle, who has intensified efforts to strengthen the squad with dual-nationality players ahead of upcoming competitions.
Ozoh, a highly-rated young midfielder on the books of Crystal Palace and currently gaining experience on loan at Derby County, is regarded as one of the promising talents eligible to play for Nigeria despite representing England at youth level.
Azeez, on the other hand, is an in-form winger playing in the English Championship. The 24-year-old, who is eligible to represent Nigeria, England, and Spain, has reportedly opted for the Super Eagles, further boosting Nigeria’s attacking options.
Chelle’s Rebuilding Project Gains Momentum
The commitment of both players highlights a deliberate strategy by Chelle to expand Nigeria’s talent pool by attracting players of Nigerian descent born abroad.
Following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the coaching crew has shifted focus toward rebuilding a competitive squad capable of challenging in future tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations.
Chelle’s approach mirrors previous successes, with several foreign-born players such as Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Ademola Lookman already playing key roles in the national team setup.
What Ozoh and Azeez Bring to the Super Eagles
Ozoh is expected to add youth, versatility, and energy to Nigeria’s midfield, an area that continues to evolve as the team transitions into a new era.
Azeez’s pace, creativity, and attacking output—highlighted by an impressive run of goals and assists in the Championship—could provide much-needed depth on the wings.
Their inclusion is also seen as a long-term investment, with both players potentially playing key roles in Nigeria’s upcoming fixtures, including international friendlies and invitational tournaments like the Unity Cup.
Growing Trend of Diaspora Talent Choosing Nigeria
The decision by Ozoh and Azeez reflects a broader trend of players of Nigerian heritage opting to represent the Super Eagles over other eligible nations.
With the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) actively scouting and engaging diaspora talent, the Super Eagles are gradually building a more diverse and competitive squad capable of competing at the highest level.
As Nigeria looks ahead to future competitions, the addition of these players could prove crucial in restoring the team’s status as one of Africa’s football powerhouses.