Born in Nigeria, Nedem Onouha could switch his allegiance from England to his birth country for this summer's finals. (Photo: ZumaPress)

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Nedum Onuoha has heretofore played for England, but having gotten the Micah Richards treatment of late, the Manchester City defender is considering following his Nigerian descent into a spot on the Super Eagles squad for South Africa.

ITV is reporting that the 23 year old defender, who has recently been seeing more action for Manchester City amidst injuries and suspensions, could represent his birth country this summer, having failed to break into the Three Lions squad after 21 appearances at the U-21 level.  

After migrating to England when he was seven, the central defender/right back (and sometimes left back) had always aligned himself with his adopted country.  But as we often see when World Cups come around, the temptation of the world's biggest soccer stage has a way of making people question their previous commitments.

I don't want that paragraph to make is sound like I frown on this practice.  I don't.  In fact, I support players doing what feels right to them.  If Onuoha feels comfortable potentially adorning the green kit this summer, I support him and congratulate him on the opportunity to play on the world's biggest stage.

I'm sure he was waiting for my approval.

As a practical consideration, this could really help the Nigerians this summer.  At the Cup of Nations, their defending seemed to crumble when Joseph Yobo picked up a knock in the tournament's opening round.  That's not to say the Eagles where very super in defense before the Everton center half was hobbled.  

As with many African nations, there seems to be a lack of organization and discipline within the ranks.  Getting better coaches (like Lars Lagerbäck) and players playing in more demanding club environments (like at Manchester City, for Roberto Mancini) could go a long way to alleviating that concern.

Looking over Nigeria's Cup of Nations roster, there are very few automatic choices at the back.  Joseph Yobo likely plays when fit, but the remaining players are in competition, particularly given a new coach.

Onuoha has said if called-up this summer, he will join that competition, whereas he turned down the chance during the March friendlies.  Able to play anywhere along the back. can could unseat players like Danny Shittu, Taye Taiwo, or Yusuf Mohamed.