Former Super Eagles star Victor Moses revealed that a significant male figure in his life, Jordan Simon, the former chairman of Crystal Palace, had encouraged him to represent England at the international level. However, Moses, born in Kaduna, Nigeria, ultimately chose to play for the Nigerian national team despite Simon’s wishes.
Moses, whose parents were killed in religious riots when he was 11, moved to England where he sought asylum. He was taken in by a foster family and eventually joined Crystal Palace’s academy. He represented England in various youth categories but opted to play for the country of his birth at the senior level, a decision he felt disappointed Simon, who had been like a father to him.
Speaking about Simon, Moses expressed deep respect and affection for the former Palace chairman, noting that despite his choice to play for Nigeria, Simon had always been supportive of his career. Moses went on to enjoy a successful international career with Nigeria, scoring 12 goals in 38 appearances and playing a pivotal role in the Super Eagles’ 2013 Africa Cup of Nations victory.
Now 33 years old, Moses retired from international football in 2018 but continues his club career. After spending several years in Russia with CSKA Moscow, he recently returned to England, signing for Luton Town in the Championship.
Editorial
Victor Moses’ choice to play for Nigeria over England speaks volumes about the emotional and cultural complexities athletes face when representing their national teams. It highlights the difficult choices many dual nationality players must make, often navigating personal connections, family histories, and professional aspirations.
We can see why Moses felt conflicted. Raised in England after enduring personal tragedy in Nigeria, it would have been understandable had he chosen to represent the Three Lions, a country that had given him safety and opportunity. Yet, the pull of one’s birthplace can be powerful, and Moses’ decision reflects the strong bond he still felt towards Nigeria, a country he lost so much in but still chose to honour.
The sense of national identity is a recurring theme in sports, where players are often pressured to make decisions that please others whether family members, coaches, or even fans. For Moses, there was an added layer of complexity, with Jordan Simon serving as a father figure in his life. His decision to choose Nigeria, knowing it may disappoint someone who had guided him through his early years, took immense courage.
In football, the weight of such decisions is immense. National team selections are not just about professional opportunities but about the emotions tied to a player’s roots, personal history, and identity. For Moses, the decision to represent Nigeria was about more than football it was about honouring his origins and the legacy of his parents.
Moses’ journey offers valuable lessons to young athletes facing similar dilemmas. At the end of the day, the decision to represent a country should come from the heart, even when it involves disappointing those close to you. Moses’ loyalty to Nigeria paid off, as he enjoyed great success with the Super Eagles, cementing his place as one of the country’s finest footballers of his generation.
As we reflect on his journey, we are reminded that in football, much like in life, the most difficult decisions often lead to the most rewarding outcomes. Moses’ career serves as an inspiration to countless young players navigating similar paths.
Did You Know?
- Victor Moses scored in the 2018 World Cup during Nigeria’s 2-1 defeat to Argentina.
- He was part of Chelsea’s Premier League-winning team in the 2016-2017 season under Antonio Conte.
- Moses’ journey to England as an asylum seeker at age 11 was prompted by the religious riots that claimed the lives of his parents in Nigeria.
- After retiring from international football, Moses continued his club career in Russia before returning to England in 2024 with Luton Town.
- Despite his success in football, Moses remains actively involved in charitable work, particularly supporting orphaned children.
