‘I don’t just like Nigeria’ – Gift Orban debunks Togo switch rumours

Gift Orban has debunked rumors linking him to his mother’s country, Togo, as he received his first international call-up for the clash against Sao Tome and Principe on Sunday.

The 21-year-old has made a significant impact at KAA Gent since joining during the winter transfer window scoring 20 goals in his first few months, attracting the attention of top European clubs.

Born to a Togolese mother and a Nigerian father, Orban is eligible to represent both countries. Having spent his childhood days in Togo and the Benin Republic, rumors say he might choose to represent the former.

He previously received a call-up to represent Salisu Yusuf’s Olympic Eagles during their Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, but injuries prevented him from accepting the invitation.

With his first call-up to the senior team, Orban expressed his love for Nigeria, saying he does not ‘like Nigeria’ but loves the country.

“I don’t like Nigeria, I love it [Nigeria]. This country has good players and good talents. I love this country,”  the Genk forward told Fans Tribe at Nigeria’s camp in Uyo.

“It is not true. I never played for Benin or Togo, many people will talk, but I never played for Togo. Although, Togo needs players, but for me, I don’t want to play for Togo.”