Former Nigeria Football Federation president Amaju Pinnick says Nigeria came close to convincing Tammy Abraham to represent the Super Eagles before the striker committed his international future to England.
Abraham, who was born in London to Nigerian parents, remained eligible to play for Nigeria while progressing through England’s youth teams. That opportunity remained open until 2017, when he made his senior debut for England in a European Championship qualifier against the Czech Republic.
Speaking on The Playzone and Dangolo Way podcast, Pinnick revealed that talks with Abraham and his family had advanced significantly, with Nigeria believing an agreement had been reached.
“Tammy Abraham, we sat like this,” Pinnick said. “We had agreed that he would come to play, but at the last moment he changed his decision.”
Amaju Pinnick. Photo Credit: NFF/X
England subsequently moved to cap the forward, effectively ending any chance of a future switch.
Abraham has since gone on to earn 11 senior caps for England, scoring three goals. However, his international involvement has slowed, with his last appearance for the Three Lions coming in June 2022.
He has not been recalled since, despite spells with Roma, AC Milan and a return to Aston Villa. Reflecting on the outcome, Pinnick admitted the episode remains a personal regret.
“Now he’s 28 and has returned to Aston Villa, but I can tell you that I regret it,” he said. “I spoke to his father, we grew up together.
“He would have played for Nigeria. Agbonlahor played three games [for England] and that was it.”
Tammy Abraham. Photo Credit: Imago
Pinnick suggested that international football with Nigeria can offer players greater longevity than competing for limited opportunities with elite European national teams, where competition is intense and careers can stall quickly.
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The former FIFA Council member pointed to Alex Iwobi as an example of how committing to Nigeria can shape a sustained international career. Iwobi, who was also eligible to represent England, has become a regular for the Super Eagles.
“Iwobi is playing for the Super Eagles today. I know the role we played,” Pinnick said. “If Iwobi had played for England, he would have stopped playing for England five or six years ago.”
Alex Iwobi at the AFCON 2025. Photo Credit: Getty Images
He added: “If your football club doesn’t support you, your national team will. The display at the last Africa Cup of Nations was notable.”
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Iwobi was instrumental as Nigeria reached the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations before going on to secure a bronze medal.
