The 28-year-old striker has not played for the three-time African champions since the 2018 World Cup in Russia
Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr has told Simy Nwankwo to leave Serie A side Crotone if he’s to have any chance of playing in the senior national team again.
Simy has had a record-breaking season with Crotone in the Italian top-flight. The 28-year-old’s is the joint third-highest goalscorer in the Serie A with 19 goals- the most a Nigerian has managed in Europe’s top five leagues.
But despite his brilliant performances, it may still not be enough to get him a spot back in the Super Eagles squad.
Simy’s last notable contribution to the national team was at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where Nigeria failed to go beyond the group stages of the competition.
Since then, the Nigerian has not made the squad, and Rohr has revealed that may not change unless he leaves Crotone.
Speaking with EuropaCalcio, the Germa tactician said Simy’s return to the Super Eagles is only possible if he leaves Crotone this summer for a better club.
“I know Simy very well, it was me who called him for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, Rohr told EuropaCalcio.
He performed well at that competition, after which he played for some time in the Italian Serie B. I have never forgotten about him and have always observed him, not just now that he is doing so well.”
“So it is very difficult to be part of the Nigeria attack. We have very good players.
“As I said before, I have never stopped following his performances, but I believe that next year he must go and play in a club and in a team that is stronger than Crotone.”
It will not be equally easy, but he would already have a better chance of returning to the national team.”
Simy may get to fulfil Rohr’s wish as has been linked with a move to Genoa.
