Okocha, Kanu Made Me Choose To Play For Nigeria – Victor Moses

Chelsea forward Victor Moses has revealed how former internationals Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha and Nwankwo Kanu talked him into choosing Nigeria over England, especially after he was overlooked by England coaches.

The former Crystal Palace sensation was named the Player of the Tournament at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa following his spectacular display as Nigeria won the African title for the third time.

Moses played for England from Under-16 to U-21 level and was tipped by former Crystal Palace owner Simon Jordan to be one of England ’s finest. But unfortunately, U-21 boss Stuart Pearce and former England manager Fabio Capello had little or no interest in Moses.

“I played all through the age levels for England and when Nigeria first asked, I wanted to concentrate on my club football,” the 22-year-old told Mirror.co.uk.

“Stuart Pearce may have spoken to my agent about England, but he never spoke to me directly and Fabio Capello never spoke to me or showed any interest in me.

“Nigeria asked again and it just seemed like the right thing to do.

“Jay-Jay Okocha and Kanu encouraged me as well before I started playing for Nigeria and it was great to speak to two legends of the country.”

Moses has yet to recover from the excitement of winning the AFCON, and he has set new targets of winning more trophies with club and country.

“It was amazing to win the tournament (AFCON). We did it for the nation. It means so much to everyone in Nigeria and it was great for me as well,” he said.

Source: Punchng.com