NFF step up interest in Arsenal's FA Cup winning box-to-box midfielder Omotara Junaid

NIGERIAN Football Federation (MFF) officials are stepping up their interest in Arsenal's FA Youth Cup winner Omotara Junaid with a view to inviting her to the Super Falcons camp to prevent England securing her services.

An energetic bob-to-box midfielder, Junaid was born in the US, so is eligible to play for America, England and Nigeria. Now a key feature in the Arsenal Ladies team, Omotara, who spent a part of her childhood in Nigeria before moving to England, has already won the FA Youth Cup with the Gunners and has also featured for the England youth team.

Although the English Football Association seems to be in pole position to claim Omotara’s services, owing to her appearances in non-binding games for the Young Lionesses, it is believed she harbours a fondness for Nigeria. Omotara was one of the standout players as Arsenal Women U16s side clinched the league title, scoring nine goals to emerge as the club's second highest goalscorer in the FA Girls' England Talent Pathway League.

She is said to be keen on representing Nigeria, following in the footsteps of her older brother Tolu. Earlier this year, Tolu was on the brink of being included in the Golden Eaglets squad to the ongoing Africa U17 Cup of Nations in Algeria after impressing in friendly matches, only to be dropped at the last minute.

Arsenal’s youth team coaches have tried Omotara out as a right-back but ultimately believe her talents are best utilised in a number eight role. They describe Junaid as a versatile player, comfortable on the ball, unafraid to tackle and possessing a commendable physique for her age.

As a winger, she is also adept at unsettling the opposition with her dynamism and flair. With her impressive performance at Arsenal and the NFF's interest, Omotara seems poised for an exciting career trajectory as she is seen as a future Super Falcons star.