WC QUALIFIERS: LEVERKUSEN'S NATHAN TELLA HANDED DEBUT SUPER EAGLES CALL-UP

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Bayer Leverkusen’s Nathan Tella has been handed a debut call-up to the Super Eagles squad by head coach Jose Peseiro ahead of Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.

In an earlier statement, the former Southampton forward expressed his eagerness to represent Nigeria, emphasizing his strong connection to the country through his Nigerian parents.

Responding to Tella’s sentiments, the former Sporting CP manager has included him in the squad for the upcoming clashes against Lesotho and Zimbabwe, marking the player’s inaugural call-up to the Super Eagles.

Tella’s impactful performance for Burnley FC, contributing to their promotion to the English Premier League while on loan from Southampton, has been a notable highlight in his career.

Reflecting on his roots, Tella emphasized Nigeria’s significance in his life despite being born and raised in England.

“I’ve always said for the last three or four years that Nigeria is a big part of my life – even though I’ve been an ‘England boy’ from London all my life,” He stated, as quoted by Bild.

Expressing his willingness to represent Nigeria, Tella previously declared: “If I got the chance to play for Nigeria, I would be more than happy and accept it. I’ve already told my parents and friends that I would do that.”

Peseiro’s decision to call up Tella comes as a replacement for Samuel Chukwueze, who is reported to have recovered from an injury sustained during Nigeria’s match against Mozambique.

With his maiden national team call-up, Tella is poised to make a significant impact when Nigeria faces Lesotho and Zimbabwe in the upcoming fixtures.