The father of former Nigeria U20 goalkeeper invitee Owen Goodman has clarified his son’s international football aspirations.
This puts an end to speculation about his potential commitment to the Nigerian national team.
Owen Goodman, who is currently on loan to League One side AFC Wimbledon, has expressed a preference to represent Canada over Nigeria, according to his father, Phil Goodman.
Owen Goodman, 21, was previously invited by former Nigeria U20 coach Ladan Bosso but was unable to join the team due to logistical issues.
The young goalkeeper, who is eligible to play for Nigeria, England, and Canada, has only been capped by England at the U20 level so far.
His impressive form at AFC Wimbledon, where he has kept 18 clean sheets in 37 games, has reignited discussions about his international future.
Phil Goodman, in an interview, revealed that his son feels more connected to Canada than Nigeria. “Canada all day long… I think he’s already made the decision… He tells me he feels more Canadian than Nigerian.
His preference is Canada, but the only way that can happen is if he gets his citizenship. He wants to become a citizen anyway, and it gives him a better chance of a call-up,” he stated.
This revelation comes after Owen Goodman and his mother visited the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) headquarters in June 2024, where he presented NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau with a signed shirt.
At the time, the visit sparked speculation that Goodman might be considering a future with the Super Eagles.
However, his father’s recent comments have put those rumors to rest.
Goodman’s decision highlights the complexities of international football eligibility, as players with dual or multiple nationalities often face tough choices about which country to represent.
For now, Goodman remains focused on his club career with AFC Wimbledon, where his performances have drawn significant attention.
The NFF has yet to comment on the matter, but Goodman’s preference for Canada effectively ends any immediate prospects of him playing for Nigeria’s senior national team.
