Former Golden Eaglets’ striker, Morenikeji Taofeek Akanbi, has been invited by a Swiss side, Neuchatel Xamax, for test games.
The player’s manager, Hasan Egilmez, revealed that Neuchatel Xamax’s invitation has been finalised.
Akanbi, who is 17, is expected to feature in the 2012 Match World Cup in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates.
It will run from January 18 to 23.
“Keji got his invitation to a top team from Switzerland, Neuchatel Xamax. We are securing his visa and in the next few days he will leave Nigeria to take part in the tournament (2012 Match World Cup) with his new team, Neuchatel Xamax. The tournament will be held in Dubai,” Egilmez said.
Egilmez also confirmed that Akanbi will be registered as an academy player and given special permission to play for Neuchatel Xamax seniors occasionally as he is still 17.
He said: “Morenikeji is only 17 years and played last year in the Nigeria Premier League for Crown FC of Ogbomoso. He has also played for Nigeria’s Under-17 national team. He is one of the biggest talents in Nigerian football system right now.
“He is going into the first team (of Neuchatel Xamax). He will be registered as an academy player due to FIFA regulations and with special permission he can play first team.”
Akanbi scored seven times for Crown FC in the last season, which was relegated last season from the top flight in Nigeria.
The teenager and the Neuchatel Xamax squad will face Zenit St. Petersburg of Russia, FC Bunyodkor of Uzbekistan and the Iraqi Under23 in Group A of the 2012 Match World Cup.
Shakthar Donetsk, Etoile Sportive du Sahel from Tunisia, FC Rostov of Russia and Uzbekistan’s Under23 side complete the eight-team tournament. Neuchatel Xamax also have Super Eagles’ attacking midfielder, Kalu Uche, in their books.
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