Footballers who could have played for Nigeria

England - Bukayo Saka, Dele Alli, John Fashanu, Ugo Ehiogu, Carlton Cole, Gabriel Agbonlahor, Ross Barkley, Fikayo Tomori, Tammy Abraham, Eberechi Eze

Germany - Karim Adeyemi, Jamal Musiala

The Netherlands - Joshua Zirkzee

Switzerland - Noah Okafor

Italy - Michael Folorunsho, Stefano Chuka, Angelo Ogbonna

Austria - David Alaba

Togo - Emmanuel Adebayor, Emmanuel Mathias

Japan - Joel Chima Fujita

Israeli - Toto Tamuz

Singapore - Precious Emuejeraye, Agu Casmir, Itimi Dickson

Benin - Razak Omotoyosi, Muri Ogunbiyi

Haiti - Emmanuel Sarki

Scotland - Ikechi Anya

Canada - Stephen Ademolu

Hong Kong - Barnes Colly Ezeh, Akandu Lawrence

Poland - Emmanuel Olisadebe

USA - Oguchi Onyewu, Amobi Okugo, Amaechi Igwe

Portugal - Thiago Ilori

Indonesia - Victor Igbonefo, Greg Nwokolo

Malta - Okonkwo Ifeanyi

WELCOME TO THE ARSENAL VIKTOR GYOKERES..

.Viktor Gyökeres on choosing Arsenal: “I just felt that it was the right club for me, What I heard from Mikel and Andrea when I was speaking with them, and just what I've seen in the past years, how they've been playing football. When I was playing against Arsenal last season, I could really feel it was a very strong team and very difficult to play against.

“That made me choose Arsenal, and of course all the history the club has and the massive fanbase. It's been amazing to see all the support that they have already given me before I even arrived. That's what it's all about. It's going to be very nice to see them in the stadiums as well.”

Gyökeres: “I always want to score, To be a part of this club and to score in this kit and with this badge in front of all the supporters, I can't wait. It will be an amazing feeling.

“I started here [in England], it feels like a long time ago. I think I've improved a lot since then. Now I want to prove myself for real and perform together with the team.

“It's a big honour to play for your country, and then to score goals for them is amazing. When I played at Sporting, I scored a few goals in the Champions League so I feel that I can be on that level as well. Now to come here to a club on Arsenal's level, I think it's going to help me perform even better with all the amazing players in this team. I'm really excited to get going.”

[Arsenal]

In a major update ahead of the 5th Test between India and England, the BCCI has confirmed that Ishan Kishan will not be available to replace Rishabh Pant, who was ruled out due to a toe fracture.

Kishan, who was a top contender, suffered an unfortunate ankle injury in a scooty accident that required stitches, making him unfit for travel.

As a result, selectors have turned to Tamil Nadu wicketkeeper-batter Narayan Jagadeesan.

Known for his consistent domestic performances, Jagadeesan has scored over 3,300 runs in first-class cricket with 10 centuries.

He is expected to join the Indian squad in England soon, pending visa clearance.

Meanwhile, Dhruv Jurel will continue to keep wickets in Pant’s absence.

This marks another test of India’s bench strength and adaptability under challenging circumstances.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DMfpddYyO5K/

#IndiaVsEngland #RishabhPant #IshanKishan #NarayanJagadeesan #CricketUpdates

Pius Ikedia: The Diminutive Dynamo of Nigerian Football

Pius Nelson Ikedia, born on July 11, 1980, in Lagos, Nigeria, is a retired professional footballer best known for his blistering pace, flair, and creativity on the right flank. Though modest in stature at 1.66 meters, Ikedia’s presence on the pitch was anything but small. His speed, agility, and dribbling ability made him one of Nigeria’s most exciting wingers during his playing years.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Ikedia began his football journey on the streets of Lagos and quickly rose through the ranks at Bendel Insurance, a club renowned for grooming local talents. His impressive displays earned him a move to ASEC Mimosas in Ivory Coast, where he further honed his skills and attracted the attention of European scouts.

In 1999, his big break came when Ajax Amsterdam signed him a significant achievement for a young Nigerian footballer at the time. Although he struggled to cement a regular starting spot at the Dutch giants, his speed and technique showed promise, particularly in his early appearances.

European Club Career

Ikedia spent six seasons in the Netherlands, playing for Ajax, Groningen (on loan), RBC Roosendaal, and AZ Alkmaar, among others. Some of his career highlights include:
• Ajax (1999–2005) – 25 league appearances, 2 goals
• Groningen (Loan, 2002–03) – 27 appearances, 1 goal
• RBC Roosendaal – Over two seasons, he played 53 games and scored 5 goals
• AZ Alkmaar & RKC Waalwijk (Loan) – 12 appearances combined

He also had brief spells outside the Netherlands, featuring for Metalurh Donetsk in Ukraine, AZAL in Azerbaijan, and Mağusa Türk Gücü in Northern Cyprus. Ikedia concluded his career playing amateur football in the Netherlands, officially retiring in 2016.

International Career with the Super Eagles

Ikedia was a key figure in the Nigerian national setup in the early 2000s, earning 15 caps and scoring one goal for the Super Eagles between 1997 and 2004.

He represented Nigeria at several major tournaments:
• 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney
• 2002 FIFA World Cup in South Korea and Japan featured in group-stage matches, including high-profile games against Argentina and England
• 2004 African Cup of Nations made appearances in the tournament as Nigeria pushed for continental glory

While not always a first-choice starter, Ikedia brought energy and pace off the bench, often changing the tempo of games.

Health Scare and Resilience

In August 2016, Ikedia suffered a major health scare during an exhibition match in the Netherlands involving former Ajax players. He collapsed on the pitch and was immediately resuscitated. Thankfully, he survived the ordeal and recovered fully a testament to his resilience both on and off the field.

Legacy

Though his name may not be mentioned among the all-time greats of Nigerian football, Pius Ikedia’s career remains a story of talent, determination, and heart. From the dusty fields of Lagos to the iconic stadiums of Europe and international tournaments, he earned his place in the rich tapestry of African football.

Fans will forever remember him for his electric pace, fearless dribbling, and his unwavering passion for the beautiful game.

Chelsea are closing in on a deal to sign Jesse Derry from Crystal Palace’s academy.

It’s understood Derry was set to join @Bayern_Munich amidst interest from other Champions League clubs, but the Blues swooped in late last week and are now set to sign the England Under-19 international.

[thechelseaspot]

#CFC #Chelsea #ChelseaFC

Ashleigh Plumptre is a 25-year-old British-Nigerian footballer currently playing for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. Born in Leicester, England, on May 8, 1998, she has a unique dual heritage, with a Nigerian father and a British mother. This background significantly influenced her decision to play for the Nigerian national team, the Super Falcons, despite previously representing England at youth level .



Her football journey began at a young age with Asfordby Amateurs, followed by stints at Leicester City, Birmingham City, and Notts County in England. She also played college soccer in the United States for the University of Southern California Trojans. After her college career, she returned to England to play for Leicester City, contributing significantly to their promotion to the Women's Super League .



Plumptre's decision to represent Nigeria has been met with both support and curiosity. She has openly discussed her connection to her Nigerian heritage, emphasizing the importance of family and exploring her roots. Her performances for the Super Falcons, particularly during the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, have solidified her status as a fan favorite. Her father, Tim Plumptre, and grandfather, Harry Dotun Plumptre, are of Yoruba descent, further strengthening her ties to Nigeria .



Beyond her impressive football career, Plumptre maintains a relatively private personal life. She has an estimated net worth of $5 million, a testament to her success both on and off the field. Her younger sister, Bayleigh Bisi Plumptre, also shares her Nigerian heritage and is a drummer. Ashleigh's story is one of talent, dedication, and a strong connection to her roots .

TRANSFER NEWS

LONG READ THOUGH

Manchester United are considering a move for Emi Martinez but may be put off by Aston Villa's £40m valuation of the 32-year-old Argentina goalkeeper.

Colombia winger Luis Diaz, 28, remains determined to leave Liverpool during the summer transfer window and is hoping Bayern Munich will make a new offer in the coming days to try to convince the English club.

Newcastle United are in danger of losing out to Manchester City in their attempt to buy 22-year-old Burnley and England goalkeeper James Trafford.

Trafford is "very keen" to return to City this summer after they hijacked his Newcastle deal.

Newcastle will offer Tino Livramento a new contract to try and ward off interest from Manchester City, who are prepared to pay £65m for the England full-back, 22.

Manchester City are not planning a move for Livramento and are looking at other targets for the position.

Tottenham are set to rival Liverpool for the signing of Crystal Palace's 25-year-old England centre-back Marc Guehi.

Manchester United's hopes of signing Nicolas Jackson have received a boost after the Chelsea and Senegal striker, 24, rejected AC Milan and Napoli because he wants to stay in the Premier League.

Aston Villa, Chelsea and Tottenham are monitoring the situation of 21-year-old Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho, with clubs believing the Argentina international could be available for about £40m.

Juventus will step up their efforts to sign England winger Jadon Sancho, 25, from Manchester United when Belgium winger Samuel Mbangula, 21, and 25-year-old USA striker Timothy Weah leave the club.

Manchester United are set to compete with Manchester City for the signature of 26-year-old Sporting and Denmark midfielder Morten Hjulmand.

Chelsea are interested in RB Leipzig midfielder Xavi Simons, 22, but may need to sell some players first to make room for the Netherlands international in their squad.

West Ham are interested in Leicester City goalkeeper Mads Hermansen, with a formal approach expected soon for the 25-year-old Dane.

Nottingham Forest are working on a deal to sign Bologna's 22-year-old Switzerland winger Dan Ndoye.

Liverpool and England Under-20s midfielder James McConnell, 20, is close to signing a new long-term deal with the club and going out on loan for the season.

Sunderland and Fenerbahce remain interested in Granit Xhaka despite Bayer Leverkusen rejecting both their bids for the 32-year-old Switzerland midfielder.

Napoli, AC Milan, Roma, Juventus and Inter Milan are interested in Liverpool's 27-year-old Italy winger Federico Chiesa.

Everton have spoken to Real Sociedad over a deal for 24-year-old Japan winger Takefusa Kubo.

Fulham are expected to complete the signing of Montpellier's 34-year-old French goalkeeper Benjamin Lecomte in the next few days.

Galatasaray are targeting a move for 26-year-old Italy keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who has one year left on his Paris St-Germain contract and has yet to agree to a new deal with the French Club.

Ashleigh Plumptre is a 25-year-old British-Nigerian footballer currently playing for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. Born in Leicester, England, on May 8, 1998, she has a unique dual heritage, with a Nigerian father and a British mother. This background significantly influenced her decision to play for the Nigerian national team, the Super Falcons, despite previously representing England at youth level .



Her football journey began at a young age with Asfordby Amateurs, followed by stints at Leicester City, Birmingham City, and Notts County in England. She also played college soccer in the United States for the University of Southern California Trojans. After her college career, she returned to England to play for Leicester City, contributing significantly to their promotion to the Women's Super League .



Plumptre's decision to represent Nigeria has been met with both support and curiosity. She has openly discussed her connection to her Nigerian heritage, emphasizing the importance of family and exploring her roots. Her performances for the Super Falcons, particularly during the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, have solidified her status as a fan favorite. Her father, Tim Plumptre, and grandfather, Harry Dotun Plumptre, are of Yoruba descent, further strengthening her ties to Nigeria .



Beyond her impressive football career, Plumptre maintains a relatively private personal life. She has an estimated net worth of $5 million, a testament to her success both on and off the field. Her younger sister, Bayleigh Bisi Plumptre, also shares her Nigerian heritage and is a drummer. Ashleigh's story is one of talent, dedication, and a strong connection to her roots .

Stop Messi from this madness immediately and save the MLS clubs! Messi seems to forget he's 39 years old, breaking all the laws of logic and age with this legendary goal that no one has yet fully grasped!
Watch! Busquets spotted Messi calling for the ball at midfield between three defenders and sent it to him. Everyone in the stadium thought Messi wouldn't be able to do anything in that situation, but what happened next was unreal…
Messi exploded with incredible speed, pulling off an unexpected move that fooled everyone. As New England players rushed after him, he suddenly unleashed a mind-blowing one-touch finish from outside the box, something beyond belief!
Watch the legendary move and deceptive speed Messi used to score a stunning second goal that sealed the match in the first half against New England!
Watch the full goal video in the first comment

Paul Merson is NOT impressed by #Arsenal signing Noni Madueke this summer: “I am flabbergasted by Arsenal signing of Noni Madueke. I’m shocked. If Arsenal went and bought any player from Chelsea, he’d have been the last one I thought they’d sign.

“I just don’t see it. It’s a lot of money for a player who is not a prolific goalscorer. He’s the sort of player that has a good game here and a good game there, but that’ll be it. The consistency of performance isn’t there.

“I hope he proves me wrong, but he’ll have the good games, just like he did for England last month. But then you won’t see him for a few weeks.

“What I don’t get is that Madueke’s best position is playing on the right, cutting inside and getting shots away. Who does that for Arsenal? Bukayo Saka. And he’s not coming out of the Arsenal starting XI.” #michaeldareolatoye

BREAKING: Defender Cristhian Mosquera is expected to arrive in England today and begin his Arsenal medical ahead of signing from Valencia for £13m plus add-ons

PLEASE FIND TIME TO READ THIS :-

Do you remember the firebrand man of God, *Benson Idahosa*
*who declared that the planned meeting of*
*Witches and Wizards in Benin cannot hold*
*while he was alive.*
*People like Katherine kulhman, Billy Graham,*
*Smith Wiggleswoth and those great men and*
*women of God. ........* *ASK THOSE WHO SAW *THE REVIVAL OF 1930s,1970s AND 1980s, THEY WILL *TELL YOU WHY WE*
*ARE CRYING OVER THIS "FIRE LESS NESS" WE ARE SEEING IN OUR*
*GENERATION OF BELIEVERS.*
*John Knox prayed:* *"Lord, Give me Scotland or I die"...*

*St Patrick, a rugged Believer that Brought*
*even Dead Animals* *And Trees Back To Life*
*Prayed: "God, Give Me souls or Give Me*
*Nothing Else"....*

*Brethren, The Hebrides revival prayed: "Lord, if you will not use us, please, kill us"...*

*The brethren from England who brought the Fire from Azusa Street revival*
*Gathered everyday under the terrible cold.*
*Their only prayer topic was: "Lord, give us*
*Men that will spread Your Fire in the streets of England".*

*During the Indonesia Revival,, Those Hungry*
*Hearts were seen* *Praying day and Night:*
*"Lord, The harvest is ripe... If it pleases You,*
*Please use us".*

*One prayer that was common during the days of William Seymour was: "Lord, this is another day that hell must lose men and women.*
*Please, we are here use us".*

*Paul said:" Woe is me if I preach not the gospel"*

*Rachel said to her husband, Jacob: "Give me children or I die".*

*But unfortunately, our churches are filled*
*Today with people who are not ashamed of spiritual barrenness.*

*We are asking "God give me money. God give me spouse.*
*God give me Visa".*

*Where do we see believers again that will be praying and fasting, and when you Listen to them, you will be hearing:* *"Lord, let Your Fire fall in my community and*
*Let their be revival"?*

*When Paul encountered Christ, he fell and rose. What He asked was:" Lord, what will You have me do".*

*But today, when we fall under anointing,* *We start expecting marriage proposals,*
*Visas and Employment letters.*
*This generation of members in our churches have not had a genuine* *Encounter with the*
*Man of Calvary.*

*No generation has* *Carried Bibles like us*
*Without opening it.*

*No generation is materially driven like ours and we expect the lord to obey us.*

*Jesus said, pray to the Father that He brings*
*His Kingdom on Earth.*

*GOD help us to get it on time. Amen.*

*Let's build up our spiritual life cos its very necessary.*

*If you miss heaven you can never miss hell. Think about it. Hell isn't a pretty place.*

*Do the work of an*
*Evangelist now by* *sharing this message* *with all your contacts.*
*Have you ever wondered*
*what would have happened if we treat the Holy Bible the way we treat our* *Mobile*
*Phone?*

*And we really can't live without the BIBLE.*
*Don't send later, send now.*

*May the Almighty* *God grant good success to*
*every one who reads and sends this message.*
*AMEN!, AMEN!!, AMEN!!!.*