By Victor Kanayo
Super Eagles star, Ademola Lookman, has admitted that the decision to switch allegiance from England to Nigeria helped shape his career.
Lookman, who was born in England to Nigerian parents, enjoyed early success with England’s youth teams, featuring at the European U-19 Championships and the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2017.
The reigning African Footballer of the Year, speaking during an interview with Arise TV, said, “Without doubt. It changed my career and my life. People know that. This is my home; this is my place, Nigeria. I am the son of the soil.”
The 27-year-old attributed his success to discipline, consistency, and unwavering dedication.
He said, “I think just self-belief and just working hard every day. I think if you work hard every single day, you get the confidence, and you grow in what you do. And you know that because you’re working hard every day, and one day you reap the benefits.
“Every single day I continue to try and work hard to try and be better. Whether that’s on or off the field. I just keep on keeping in that way, and that’s been helping me.”
Speaking on receiving a prestigious CAF award for his outstanding performances, Ademola Lookman reflected with a deep sense of pride and gratitude.
Lookman played a pivotal role when Nigeria finished second in the Africa Cup of Nations in the last edition in Ivory Coast.