The international future of Rennes midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu is one that has dominated discussions for a while since he made his breakthrough to the first team of the Ligue 1 side at the age of 17.
A nephew to former Nigeria U20 and senior international Onyekachi Apam, the 19 year old who is now fully established as a regular fot Ligue 1 side Rennes with 17 league appearances this season is eligible to represent either Nigeria or France at international level.
For now he plays for the French national team at youth level and he appeared not to be keen on switching to Nigeria in the future as he bodily stated in an interview that his dream is to represent France at European tournaments, and possibly win the World Cup.
“Play a European competition every season. I dream of winning a World Cup. I want to be at the highest level possible. Outside of football, I don’t want to change, no matter who I am tomorrow. I want to stay the same and improve my relationship with the Lord”, he replied when asked about his dreams by French media outlet Onze Mundial.
His statement has all but rule out any plans of playing for Nigeria in the immediate with his progress now closely monitored by the selectors of the senior national team of France, even though he face a tough competition for a spot in the middle of the team with the players ahead of him in the same age bracket.
Osas Mahawi
