Ashleigh Plumptre: Super Falcons star says she's a proud Yoruba girl

The Super Falcons defender, Ashleigh Plumptre said she is a Proud Yoruba girl.

Plumptre recently parted ways with English Super League side Leicester City after her contract expired at the King Power Stadium.

The 26-year-old centre-back started every game for Randy Waldrum’s team as the African giants progressed out of the group stages, before getting knocked out by eventual finalists, England.

She was part of the Super Falcons team that made history at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup during Nigeria’s 3-2 win against Australia.

There have been speculations circulating on social media that Plumptre rejected England for Nigeria.

This assertion calls into question a look back at Plumptre’s comments about England before the switch to Nigeria.

Plumptre, a few years ago, while at the University of Southern California, celebrated her inclusion in the England women’s youth team.

She said in part, “Another significant honor was my inclusion in the England Women’s U23 La Manga tournament in Spain earlier on this year.”

Her perspective has since shifted to embracing Nigeria to learn about her heritage, food, people, and culture.

Plumptre is of mixed ancestry. Her father is a member of the Yoruba tribe and is originally from Lagos State in Nigeria with an English mother.

‘’My grandfather from dad’s side is a Nigerian from Lagos state. He is of Yoruba descent. My younger sister Bayleigh, is called by Yoruba name, Bisi. She is a drummer," She told Nigerian Tribune.

Plumptre has since earned plaudits for her dedication, commitment and performances for Nigeria on the big stage and as such, has seen her social media presence grow sporadically in the last couple of weeks.