Ashleigh Plumptre, who used to play for England’s youth teams, has opened up about why she chose to represent Nigeria, the country of her father’s birth, at senior level.
Plumptre played for England’s U15, U17, U19, and U23 teams. But in February 2022, she made her first appearance for Nigeria’s senior women’s team, the Super Falcons. She also played at the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
Why she made the switch
The Super Falcons defender said it wasn’t just about football—it was about identity and purpose.
“I had great experiences with England’s youth teams,” she said. “But during the covid lockdown, I spent more time with my sister. She wanted to learn about our roots, and that made me think more about our Nigerian heritage.”
Plumptre said the journey helped her understand more about her background, and that representing Nigeria means more to her than she can explain in words.
It wasn’t a second choice
She made it clear that choosing Nigeria wasn’t because England didn’t call her up. Instead, it was a personal choice that felt right to her.
“I wanted to connect with the part of my heritage I hadn’t explored before,” she explained. “I also hope to inspire other young people, especially those of mixed race, who may feel they belong to more than one culture.”
Success with Nigeria
Plumptre was an important part of the Nigerian team that won the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. For her efforts, she was honoured with a national award—Officer of the Order of the Niger. She also received $100,000 and a new three-bedroom home in Abuja’s Renewed Hope Estate.