English-born Nigeria international Ashleigh Plumptre proud to be a Yoruba

Nigeria international, Ashleigh Plumptre has revealed that she is proud to be a Yoruba.

Plumptre was born in Leicester and has spent most of her life in the United Kingdom. She has represented England in the age group football, from under-15s to under-23s.

However, a decision with its roots beyond football encouraged her to stake her international future to Nigeria with whom she qualified through her paternal grandfather, Her father Plumptre is a member of the Yoruba tribe and is originally from Lagos State in Nigeria with an English mother.

The Super Falcons star made her debut on January 21 against Cote d’Ivoire in the 2022 Women’s African Cup of Nations qualifier and has since earned plaudits for her dedication, commitment, and performances on the big stage.

The defender parted ways with Women’s Super League side Leicester City following the expiration of her contract at the King Power Stadium. The center-back started all four matches, keeping clean sheets in all but one, as the Super Falcons advanced from hosts Australia and Olympics champions Canada to set up a last-16 tie with England.

Despite England reaching the final, the Yoruba woman has no regrets playing for Nigeria at the World Cup.

‘’My grandfather from dad’s side is a Nigerian from Lagos state. He is of Yoruba descent,” She told Nigerian Tribune

“My younger sister Bayleigh, is called by Yoruba name, Bisi. She is a drummer. I’ve had people ask me ‘do you have any regrets, you could still have played for England’ and I understand why people say that, but I’m exactly where I’m meant to be on my journey.

“I made the decisions for a reason and the fact I was lining up against these players I used to play with, now with a different badge – another part of who I am – on my chest was really hard to put into words but was really special.

“Being with Nigeria, the most fulfilling part isn’t just football, it’s the whole experience and what it means for me, and it’s the same thing when I played for Leicester.”