Nigeria legend Nwankwo Kanu is delighted that Amkar Perm defender Brian Idowu opted to represent the Super Eagles internationally over his country of birth, Russia.
Idowu, who has been included in Nigeria’s 23-man squad list for the World Cup, was born in St. Petersburg to a Nigerian father and his mother is half Russian, half Nigerian.
”We are pleased that Brian has chosen Nigeria’s national team, the fans really appreciate him,” Kanu told Russian News Agency TASS,
”He perfectly suits the national team’s playing style. Brian will be able to diversify the team, as he was brought up in another football system, it will only benefit the national team.”
The former Arsenal striker has opined that the presence of Russian-born Idowu in the Super Eagles will make the players more comfortable during the World Cup, a view that has been echoed by manager Gernot Rohr.
”He knows everything about Russia, and this will help the team before the World Cup in Russia.
”Every little thing is important, but we will have a player who knows the country, speaks Russian. He will play at home and help others feel at home,” added Nwankwo Kanu.
Brian Idowu scored eight minutes into his international debut against Argentina after coming off the bench and has gone on to make four appearances for the national team.
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