Gernot Rohr disappointed as German Jordan Torunarigha rejects Nigeria

by Austin Ditlhobolo

Friday May 11, 2018. 14:00

Nigeria head coach Gernot Rohr says he is disappointed after Germany youth international Jordan Torunarigha turned down the opportunity to play for the Super Eagles.

The German tactician was hoping to convince Torunarigha to play for Nigeria at the upcoming 2018 FIFA World Cup finals which will be hosted by Russia between June and July.

Hertha Berlin defender Torunarigha was born in Chemnitz to Nigerian parents and he represented Germany at different youth levels, but he is uncapped at senior international level.

"It's disappointing because he was presented with a great chance to play in the World Cup if only he was interested," Rohr told BBC Sport.

"I've followed his progress, I believe he would have made positive contributions to the team. But we must really respect this young boy's decision now and wish him well."

Torunarigha has risen from Hertha's youth set up and progressed into the Hertha Berlin first team in the final months of the 2016/2017 campaign.

The 20-year-old's father, Ojokojo, played for Nigerian professional side Shooting Stars of Ibadan in the late 1980s, before moving to German second tier with Chemnitzer FC in the mid 1990s.