Super Eagles defender, Ola Aina has revealed that he would have loved to see Marcus Rashford play for Nigeria, stating that the forward would have been a ‘fantastic’ addition to the national team.
Aina, who has been a key figure for both Nottingham Forest and the Super Eagles, was speaking during an interview shared by ESPN UK.
When asked which England international he wished was Nigerian, the versatile full-back picked between Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford before eventually settling on Rashford.
“Saka or Rashford… I just think Rashford is mad dynamic,” Aina said. “He’s quick and direct, like how we play in the Super Eagles. I think Rashford would be a good addition still.”
Born in Manchester to Jamaican and Kittitian parents, Rashford has never had Nigerian roots, but his style and flair have often made African fans wonder how he would have thrived playing for a side like Nigeria.
Marcus Rashford, currently on loan from Manchester United to Aston Villa for the remainder of the season, remains one of England’s brightest talents.
The forward has made 41 appearances across all competitions this season, scoring 11 goals and providing 9 assists, despite a season full of ups and downs.
Aina’s comments highlight just how highly Rashford’s abilities are regarded, not just in England but globally, and how his playing style could have fit seamlessly into the fast, direct, and aggressive style traditionally associated with the Nigerian national team.
Currently sidelined due to injury, Aina is working towards making a return to the pitch before the end of the club season.
His recovery is also crucial for Nigeria, with the highly anticipated Unity Cup tournament scheduled for May.
Aina will be hoping to be fully fit in time to participate and contribute to the Super Eagles’ ambitions at the tournament.
