Ike Ugbo has dumped Nigeria to represent Canada Soccer’s Men’s National Team.
Ugbo, 23, will join Canada this coming week in Edmonton, Alberta for the Concacaf final round of FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The striker, who plays at club level for Genk in the Belgian top-division, represented England at the youth international level and was eligible to represent Nigeria through his parents but has instead committed his future to the North American nation.
“This is great news for Canada Soccer’s Men’s National Team Program and the country as he’s another young, top-level player with his best football years ahead of him,” said John Herdman, head coach of the Canadian national team.
“He’s chosen to be part of this exciting journey starting with FIFA World Cup qualifiers. We are looking forward to finally see him in that Canada red jersey.”
Ugo was a two-time UEFA Youth League winner with Chelsea in 2014-15 and 2015-16.
He’s scored twice in nine appearances for Genk in the Belgian Pro League this season.