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August 03, 2006
Anichebe opts to fly with Eagles
Everton striker Victor Anichebe has ruled out playing for England, saying his international future lies with Nigeria instead.
By Oluwashina Okeleji
BBC Sport, Lagos
"I would love to represent Nigeria because that is where I'm from," the 18-year-old told BBC Sport.
"My family moved to England when I was just one year old, but I still feel Nigerian.
"I have been a fan from childhood and follow events back home on a regular basis."
Despite his ambition of flying with the Super Eagles someday he is only too aware of the challenges ahead in the coming months.
"I'm looking forward to competing for a starting spot at Everton and hitting goals on a regular basis," he said.
"The main thing for me is to keep working hard as I still have a long way to get to the top.
"The fans here are awesome and the management have been supportive, which makes my job extremely easy."
Anichebe has progressed through the Everton youth system, he became a regular under-18 academy player before graduating to the reserves.
He eventually made his senior debut as a substitute in an FA Cup fourth round tie against Chelsea in January 2006.
The youngster says playing alongside Nigeria captain Joseph Yobo also serves as a massive boost for him.
"It's nice to get a picture of the international camp from Joseph [Yobo]," he added.
"He paints the picture of a unit who are all proud to wear the family attire and being a part of that group will be great."
Posted by Publisher at August 3, 2006 01:19 PM
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