Nigerian international, Shola Ameobi, has said that the prospect of flying the flag for Newcastle United at the World Cup should result in the Magpies’ Brazil hopefuls hitting top form during the Premier League run-in.
Ameobi, who will be hoping to add to his 20 appearances for United this season at Fulham this weekend, knows it is a make or break ahead of his last chance to play in the World Cup finals.
Ameobi goes into this weekend’s clash having already netted for the Super Eagles at Craven Cottage this season in a 2-2 draw with Italy.
Ameobi’s contract at United is up at the end of the season and he could leave the club.
But with 10 games to go, he knows that World Cup places are up for grabs, saying: “It would be nice to represent the club.
“We have a few other players that will be there so there’s a good mix of guys here that are vying for a place on that plane to Brazil.
“To get the opportunity to go there at the end of the season is fantastic. It’s something we are looking forward to.
“It’s really exciting and it’s a lot of motivation to make sure you are fit, playing well and you are playing for your team.”
Ameobi has missed out on several major tournaments throughout his career.
But with the World Cup now just 90 days away, he admits he would love to cap his career with an appearance in Brazil.
Ameobi hasn’t scored for United this term but some solid displays during the winning run in November resulted in fans chanting his name and pushing his World Cup bid.
He said: “It’s taken a long time to get there. Better late than never. But it’s icing on the cake for my career. I didn’t think I’d get this chance.”
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