Brian Fok Pledges His International Future To Nigeria

Shanghai Shenhua starlet Briank Fok has pledged his international future to Nigeria despite having caps for the youth teams of Hong Kong.

Born in Kaduna 20 years ago to a Nigerian mom and a Hong Kongese dad, the central defender can represent either of the countries at senior level.

Despite being in contention to sport the red jersey of the Hong Kong senior national team in the not too distant future, Brian Fok wants to step out of his comfort zone, and fight to earn a spot on Nigeria's Olympic National Team.

''I have never been contacted by the Nigeria Football Federation, I would love to play for Nigeria if the chance ever comes,'' Brian Fok said to SL10.ng.

''I have played from Under 17 level to Under 23 level for the Hong Kong national team.

''I was born in Nigeria and grew up there, I left when I was 12. I miss everything in Nigeria, family, friends, the freedom and most especially the food.''

The Pepsi Academy product says his decision to play for Nigeria instead of Hong Kong will be sweet music to the ears of his mother, who has been following his progress since he picked up the trade.

''My mum would love it if I could play for Nigeria because her family is a sporting family.

''But my dad prefers me to play for Hong Kong as it's much easier to play for them plus if I play for Hong Kong I can easily play in China as a
local player,'' Brian Fok goes on.

Quizzed about his characteristics, he said: ''I play a simple game, I prefer possession football and I like to go in hard for tackles.

''I'm a leader on the pitch, encourage players and I have a big physical presence.''

Brian Fok has cited former Manchester United defenders Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand as his role models.

He is spending the second half of this season at Spanish side FC Cracks on loan from Shanghai Shenhua.