Moses has inspired me to play for Nigeria, claims Akpan

19 Mar 2013 21:45:00

The former Everton midfielder wants to follow in the footsteps of the Chelsea winger after watching the Super Eagles triumph at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in January

Reading youngster Hope Akpan says he wants to play for Nigeria, after being inspired by Victor Moses in the victorious Super Eagles squad at the Africa Cup of Nations.

The 21-year-old was born in Liverpool, but revealed that negotiations are ongoing to play for the nation where his "heart lies".

The former Everton midfielder told BBC Sport: "That process is going on as we speak. My parents are Nigerian so to play for Nigeria would definitely be an honour.

"I was born in the UK so to play for England would be an honour too but, for me, Nigeria at the minute is where my heart lies.

"Watching Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations, I was delighted they managed to win that, it's been a while since Nigeria have been at the top of the tree in Africa.

"To see a young player, who was brought up in the UK, like Victor Moses play for the team, do well for the team - be one of the outstanding players in the tournament, I thought, for Nigeria - has inspired me to want to do the same."

Akpan insisted that he has not had any contact from coach Stephen Keshi or the Nigerian Football Association, although he is eager to make an impression internationally.

He added: "Not particularly, no. It's something that I'd like, some contact to go on, because it is one of the things that I want to do in the future, play for Nigeria."