Chelle and Adarabioyo meet in England as the coach impresses big centreback with his plans

SUPER Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has held a meeting with Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo in London in an ambitious attempt to get him to switch his international allegiance to Nigeria.

Adarabioyo, 27, born in England to Nigerian parents, joined Chelsea from fellow west London side Fulham at the end of last season. He is eligible to play for both England and Nigeria but so far has shunned advances from the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) to feature for the Super Eagles, holding out for an invitation to the Three Lions.

It appears that it has now dawned on the defender that his only chance of senior international football is with Nigeria. Up until now, Adarabioyo has played for various youth teams in England and it is believed that his family would like him to play for Nigeria.

Over the last week, newly-appointed Super Eagles head coach Chelle has been in  England to meet with his players and during his visit, he spoke with Adarabioyo. Chelle who will be in charge of the team for the first time in March when they play in the World Cup qualifiers games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe respectively is leaving no stone unturned in his bid to put a formidable squad for both games.

Apparently, Adarabioyo was impressed with Chelle's plans and sources say he could be added to the Super Eagles squad for subsequent games. With West Bromwich Albion centreback Semi Ajayi out injured, Tosin considering the move to play for Nigeria will be a welcome relief.

Adarabioyo is known for his composed style of play, aerial strength and ability to bring the ball out from the back. His potential inclusion in the Nigerian national team could bring a new dynamic to the Nigerian defence as the Super Eagles continue to build towards having a competitive squad once again.