Newcastle United forward Jacob Murphy has finally reached a decision on whether or not he will switch allegiance to represent the Super Eagles of Nigeria, Footynaija.com reports.
Murphy is eligible to represent Nigeria and the Republic of Ireland through his father and mother respectively despite turning out for England at various youth levels during the early stages of his career.
The 29-year-old Magpies forward has enjoyed fine form in the Premier League this season. He has notched five goals and registered eight assists in 23 appearances so far.
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Murphy’s strong displays have caught the eye of new Super Eagles boss Eric Chelle, who has since made an attempt to convince the winger to switch international allegiance ahead of Nigeria’s crucial World Cup qualification games in March.
However, Daily Mail reports that the Newcastle forward will not be accepting Chelle’s offer to represent the Super Eagles as he looks to keep the door open for a potential England or Republic of Ireland call-up in the future.
“Jacob Murphy will politely decline an approach from Nigeria to switch his international allegiance.
“That would give Murphy the chance to play at next year’s World Cup, but we understand he will not be joining the Nigeria squad any time soon.”
Murphy’s decision comes as a blow for Chelle as he looks to rejig the Super Eagles’ highly talented but misfiring attack and successfully guide the African giants through the perilous waters of their 2026 World Cup qualification group.
After failing to land Murphy’s allegiance, Eric Chelle’s next focus should be how he can optimally utilize the plethora of attacking talents already at his disposal.
