OwnGoalNigeria.com has obtained exclusive confirmation from FIFA that former England youth goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo’s nationality switch to Nigeria has been approved, enabling him to represent the senior national team.
The 22-year-old, currently on loan from Arsenal to Wrexham in English League Two, requested to change his nationality from England to Nigeria. Okonkwo previously represented England at junior levels, featuring in 11 matches between the ages of 15 and 18, with his last appearance in 2018.
Per our exclusive information, FIFA has sanctioned the switch, allowing Nigeria’s senior national team head coach, Jose Peseiro, to consider him for selection. However, Peseiro’s decision will depend on Okonkwo’s performance, as Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has established himself as the team’s first-choice goalkeeper following an impressive showing at the AFCON.
Okonkwo has kept 26 clean sheets in 26 appearances across all competitions for third-division Wrexham, conceding just 26 goals. He also had a decent season with Austrian team Sturm Graz last year, securing six clean sheets in 18 games.
Previously, he spent the first half of the preceding season on loan at Crewe Alexandra in League Two, recording ten clean sheets in 36 appearances before joining the Austrian side. His club future will be decided upon his return to Arsenal in the summer, while his international future with Nigeria is being finalized.
