Fash warning to Saka on 3 Lions

ARSENAL teen sensation Bukayo Saka is being urged to follow his heart – rather than cash – when making the call between England and Nigeria.

The message is from ex-England striker John Fashanu, as The Emirates starlet weighs up whether to carry on with the Three Lions or opt for the Super Eagles. Saka, 18, already an England Under- 19s international, is widely tipped to be a part of Gareth Southgate’s senior squad in the near future.

But the Ealing-born Gunners winger also qualifies for Nigeria through his parents and, with the Africans ready to select him NOW, admits that he has a ‘difficult’ decision to make. Ex-Wimbledon and Aston Villa hitman Fash faced something similar in the late 80s – eventually choosing Bobby Robson’s Three Lions over Nigeria. The Crazy Gang legend, capped twice by England, said: “I had several chances to play for Nigeria – only back then if you wanted to wear the Super Eagles shirt you had to pay for the opportunity.

“That made it less attractive. As a businessman and a footballer, I chose England because it made me money rather than cost me.

“For a young man like Saka now, it must be about what his heart is telling him – not finance and fame.

“The fact is he is Nigerian and the Motherland needs him.

“If every Nigerian born or playing in Europe chose to play for a country there, the Super Eagles would be stuck and never grow.

“Saka will be a star wherever he performs on the world stage.

“That’s why I’m calling on him to help Nigeria develop into a genuine football superpower – by setting the right example.”

Fash, 57 (below) who with brother Justin was adopted and raised in Norfolk, says Saka would be treated with huge respect if he makes the switch.

The ex-Premier League hotshot added: “There’s still things to improve with Nigeria but that doesn’t stop me advising Saka to choose us over financial security with England.

“I’ve been lucky enough to live in Nigeria for 15 years. “I’ll look after Saka and he’ll be welcomed by everyone.”