Nigeria-eligible winger Rio Ngumoha has reflected on his unexpected call-up to the England senior national team, revealing that the invitation came through a text message from the Football Association's technical director.
The Liverpool youngster enjoyed an impressive breakthrough campaign with the Reds despite the club enduring a difficult and inconsistent season that ended with a finish outside the Premier League's top four.
Ngumoha made 19 league appearances during the campaign, scoring two goals and providing one assist to establish himself as one of the club's brightest young talents.
His outstanding performances earned him a place in England's senior training camp ahead of their World Cup preparations, before he was handed his international debut in a friendly victory over New Zealand in June.
The appearance saw him become the fifth-youngest player to represent England at senior level. Reflecting on the call-up, Ngumoha revealed that he received the invitation shortly before the final game of last season.
“It was crazy, to be fair. I think I got the call-up just before the last game of the season, the technical director of the FA texted me saying, ‘I need to chat with you.’” Ngumoha told the club's website.
“And then he just told me I’m going to be in the training camp, which is good. Then I got there, then met everyone, training was top, and I got to play. It was an unreal experience I will never forget.”
Despite making his senior debut for England in a friendly win over New Zealand, Ngumoha remains eligible to represent Nigeria at international level, as FIFA regulations allow him to switch allegiance until he features in a competitive senior fixture for England.
Adeyemi Adewale
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