Fashanu Declares Interest in Super Eagles Managerial Role

Ogun State, Nigeria — Renowned former England international and ex-Wimbledon striker, John FashanuJohn Fashanu, has openly expressed his ambition to coach Nigeria’s senior national football team, the Super Eagles.

During a recent media interaction in Ogun State, Fashanu shared his aspirations in a video shared via X (formerly Twitter), affirming his readiness to take up what he described as one of the most demanding roles in Nigerian football.

“I am deeply interested in managing the Super Eagles,” Fashanu stated. “It is no doubt a challenging task, but with the right personnel—people who genuinely understand football—I am confident in my ability to lead the team.”

He was quick to dismiss notions that his interest was financially motivated, stressing the need for players with both technical capability and national pride.

“This is not about money or what anyone stands to gain financially. It’s about assembling players from across the globe with the right mindset and dedication to represent Nigeria. That is the true mission,” he emphasized.

The former forward, who famously clinched the FA Cup with Wimbledon in 1988, reflected on his personal experience of national allegiance. Though eligible to play for Nigeria, Fashanu eventually represented England, earning three caps, but has since expressed regret for not donning the green and white jersey.

Now aged 62, Fashanu retired from professional football in 1995 after spells with clubs including Norwich City, Aston Villa, and Millwall. Though he has no formal coaching experience, he remains passionate about contributing to Nigerian football.

Born in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, to a Nigerian barrister father and a British Guianese mother, Fashanu began his football journey at Norwich City in 1979. He turned professional in 1981, the same period his late brother, Justin Fashanu, made headlines with a high-profile move to Nottingham Forest.

Despite having once played for England, Fashanu maintains a strong connection to his Nigerian heritage and has reiterated his desire to give back to his “motherland” through football leadership.

By Enoch  Odesola| May 3, 2025