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Anichebe - Nigeria for me

Image: Anichebe: Nigeria rather than England

Everton striker Victor Anichebe has reiterated he wants to play international football for Nigeria.

Striker can't see himself playing for England

Victor Anichebe has reiterated he wants to play international football for Nigeria and does not envisage representing England instead. The Everton striker infuriated Nigerian officials last month when he pulled out of the squad with a hand injury, prompting suggestions he was 'dodging' the chance to play for the Super Eagles. Nigeria feared the youngster had withdrawn from the friendly in order to ensure he was still eligible to play for England as he mulled over his international future. But Anichebe has stressed that Nigeria are his only option and he appears to have no intention of turning out for England.

Home country

"It's my home country and I can't really see myself playing for England," Anichebe told the BBC's World Service. "I go back there every year, every Christmas, but because now Everton have all their games over that period, I go back in the summer. "My family is massive over there, most of my family is over there." The 19-year-old also discussed the African Cup of Nations, which is being held in Ghana in the New Year, and for which he could be called up. He added: "I think Ivory Coast is a very strong team and they have a good chance, but Nigeria is a very good team. "Ghana are also very strong. The home team have always got an advantage because they're playing in front of the fans."