England’s call-up of Anglo-Nigerian striker, Tammy Abraham, seems to have put paid to Nigeria’s hope of having him don the green and white jersey of the national football team. By inviting him for the friendly games against Brazil and Germany, the English FA has acted swiftly and smartly, playing their cards well in order not to lose the services of the prolific striker.

Recall that some few months back, the media was filled with news [being relayed by the president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick] of the prospect of Abraham playing for Nigeria at the FIFA World Cup in Russia next year. Only for the striker to publicly debunk the news and made it pointedly clear that he was still available for selection into the English set-up- a wish that has thus far been granted. That debunking had not only shattered the hope of having him play for Nigeria to some extent but also did sink Pinnick’s face in the mud as the football administrator‘s desperation was brought to the limelight.

Inasmuch as one might be tempted to flow along with those who aimed to criticize Pinnick’s handling of the whole situation- he has got faults no doubt- it is important that the premises upon which he acted be put under review. Tammy’s pursuit was informed by the need to create more competition in the forward line. And considering the profligacy of the Eagles in front of goal, it was imperative that other options be sought out, and Tammy was one of such that never came to be in the end.

In a broader view, that the Federation is aiming to get a player in the mold of Tammy Abraham should yet throw a challenge to every player in the forward line as well as every other player in the team. Nigeria is blessed with talented footballers but there seems to be little going in the way of self-development. There are many names that come to mind but after a few seasons at the top, they just seem to fizzle out.

While some Nigerian enthusiasts are finding it hard to understand why Tammy had settle to go with England even with what players like Agbonlahor, Fashanu et al had gone through, we must understand that Tammy Abraham has got his own will and could not have afforded to go with something his heart isn’t committed to- just like every passionate and goal oriented individual would. One can only wish him good luck.

Tammy Abraham may not have been another Victor Moses, Alex Iwobi or Ola Aina; all of whom Nigeria has snatched from England- and that’s down to choice. But as the dust over Tammy Abraham’s situation settles, it is high time we looked inward and make the most of what we have got on hand. The players have to up their game, and the technical crew needs to help these players maximize their potentials. All hands must be on deck in order to turn the country’s national football team into a highly productive force.