Owen Goodman is a man spoilt with choice regarding his international football career.
The 17-year-old Crystal Palace U-18 goalkeeper was born in Canada to a Nigerian Mother and British Father.
The multiple-choice means he can represent Canada, Nigeria, and England in his international career. A young goalkeeper with a clear head and directions opened up on how he’ll arrive at a decision.
“Whoever Calls me first, I will honour the invite.”
Pushed further on the possibility of choosing Nigeria, Owen Goodman gave an emphatic answer. ” I will be glad to play for my country (Nigeria). If I get the opportunity, I will grab it.”
Owen Goodman and A Case Of An Ex-International
There’s a catch for Owen as his connection with a Nigerian legend through a chanced meeting way back in Canada.
“My family has a good relationship with Kanu Nwankwo, when he came to Canada. My mum struck up a conversation, introduced me. We talked about Nigeria and our football history. I want to be a part of this in the future”.
Meanwhile, Owen’s situation bears semblance to how Ola Aina, a Nigerian defender, decided on his international future.
While still at Chelsea in 2017, Aina revealed that former Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi helped make the decision easy.
“The one person that I would say has been an influence to me a little bit is John Obi-Mikel,” Aina told Goal. “I first talked to him three years ago about it [playing for Nigeria]. Last season, the season before, and the season before that. Aina to Goal in 2017.
The Plan Ahead
Owen signed his first professional contract in July, and he’ll be hoping to get more senior games under his belt.
He is currently shuttling between the U18s and U23 of Crystal Palace, and his major plan is to steady the ship this season before a major push for senior appearances next season.
He has kept one clean sheet in ten league appearances, conceded ten goals, and had a 50% win. Furthermore, a breakdown shows four wins, one loss, and three drawn games.
Also, Owen Goodman has made the bench on two occasions with the Crystal Palace U23s.
In a recent chat with some select Nigerian sports media, Owen demonstrated a good knowledge of the super eagles.
Alex Iwobi and captain Ahmed Musa were his favorite players as he quickly added in form Napoli striker Victor Osimhen to the list.
His middle name, Olamidayo, is from Yoruba-speaking southwest Nigeria, meaning My wealth brought Joy.
Owen Goodman hopes his wealth brings Joy to his international career, which could be Nigeria.