‘You won’t get selected’ - Akpom reveals what Osimhen told him about getting invited by Chelle

Akpom, who had played for Ajax and Middlesbrough before joining Lille, has been in good form this season.

The forward has scored eight goals this season before leaving Ajax during the January transfer window.

However, despite his recently found form, he has failed to get invited to the Nigerian national team.

Akpom recently alluded to a new strategy under Chelle by disclosing his conversation with Victor Osimhen.

He told journalist Oluwashina Okeleji on X, “I was just speaking to Victor Osimhen about it after our game against Galatasaray.

“There are a lot of good strikers in the team, but I believe the national team should always be picked on merit. 

“Victor said the new coach has the mentality that if you’re not performing in training or playing well for your club, you won’t get selected. I’m always open to it—if I get the call-up, it’ll be an honour.”

Osimhen affirmed that the new coach will only call up players depending on their training and club performance.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is expected to announce Chelle's squad list for the pivotal qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe next month.

Before facing Zimbabwe in Uyo on March 25, the Super Eagles will travel to Kigali to play Rwanda on March 21.