Chelsea’s Ola Aina, Brighton and Hove Albion’s Chuba Akpom pledge allegiance to Nigeria

The youngsters recently teamed up with the Super Eagles squad to train despite having previously represented England's Under-21s

Chelsea right-back Ola Aina and Brighton & Hove Albion’s Chuba Akpom have pledged their future to Nigeria, after featuring for the team in a closed door friendly on Tuesday.

They posed with the Nigeria Football Federation president, Amaju Pinnick shortly after the training game that ended 1-1 at the Hive Stadium.

Despite representing England in the under-16, under-17, under-18, under-19 and under-20 levels, Aina who has Nigerian parents is eligible to represent the Super Eagles.

On his part, Akpom (of Nigeria descent) has played for England at all levels but is qualified to play for the three – time African champions.

Ola Aina & Chuba Akpom

With both rookies now committed to playing for Nigeria, the Nigeria Football Federation can work towards acquiring clearance, so they can be involved in future matches.

Gernot Rohr had clarified his intentions concerning Aina after his side's 1-1 draw with Senegal on Thursday.

"It is normal to have this situation, when we have very good player [like Ola Aina] who can pick two teams," Rohr told Goal.

"We always leave the door open to young talent."