Udinese defender Destiny Udogie has opted to represent Italy on the international stage at the expense of Nigeria, reports Completesports.

Udogie was born in Italy, but he is of Nigerian descent.

The youngster is currently on loan at Hellas Verona from Udinese.

“I was born in Italy, so I feel more Italian. I grew up playing with the young players in Italy, so I want to continue with Italy,” Udogie told the Italian Football Podcast.

“I hope to reach the first team and play as many matches as possible.”

Despite his young age, Udogie believes he will soon break into the Italian national team.

“Of course, it is my ambition to make it to the senior team,” Udogie responded when asked if his age will hinder his target to play for Italy. 

“I just have to do my best in every game so I can show him [Roberto Mancini] my qualities and it is a big ambition I hope to be able to reach.”