"My Dream Is To Represent Nigeria, The Culture Suit Me Better" - SBV Vitesse Winger

"My Dream Is To Represent Nigeria, The Culture Suit Me Better" - SBV Vitesse Winger 

Sampson Adedeji

SBV Vitesse winger Dillion Hoogewerf has reiterated his desire to represent Nigeria at international level, declaring that it remains his ultimate dream to play for the country of his mother’s birth, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The 22-year-old attacker, who was born to a Nigerian mother and a Dutch father, revealed that he feels a stronger connection to Nigeria despite featuring for Dutch youth national teams earlier in his career.

“It’s my mother’s country. I’ve been there a few times and have said I want to help people there,” Hoogewerf said.

The winger added that the Nigerian culture resonates more with him and that representing the West African nation would be a special achievement.

“Nigeria culture suits me better. There’s a better chance of being remembered in African countries. There are so many good footballers,” he stated.

Hoogewerf disclosed that he had the opportunity to switch allegiance to Nigeria at the age of 16, but the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic stalled the process while he continued his development with the Dutch youth sides.

“When I was sixteen, I had the chance to play for Nigeria. Then COVID hit, and I was playing for the Dutch youth teams. 

"This season, we reconnected. To play for Nigeria, I have to play at a higher level,” he added.

The former Ajax youth product will now hope to raise his performance level at club side Vitesse as he pushes to fulfil his ambition of wearing the green and white jersey.