Ex-Nigeria U17 World Cup winner, Osayi switch allegiance to Uganda

Former Nigeria youth international Akpan Udoh and goalkeeper Kingdom Osayi have switched allegiance to Uganda as the country moves to strengthen its senior national football teams.

According to Soccernet.ng, the Federation of Uganda Football Associations confirmed both players among nine professionals being recruited under its national-team development plan.

Udoh, 27, represented Nigeria at the 2015 FIFA U17 World Cup, where the Golden Eaglets won the title. He currently plays for Mosta FC in Malta and is eligible for Uganda through a grandfather born in the country.

Osayi, 22, previously played for Heartland, MFM, Doma United and Enugu Rangers before joining Swedish side Assyriska FF. FUFA said he qualifies through his Ugandan-born grandmother.

Osayi has never represented Nigeria internationally and therefore does not require a formal nationality switch. Udoh, however, requires FIFA clearance because he previously represented Nigeria at youth level.

Neither goalkeeper has played for Uganda, but both could become available once the necessary documentation and eligibility procedures are completed.