Akanbi is Xamax bound

Former Golden Eaglets' striker, Morenikeji Taofeek Akanbi, has been invited by Swiss side, Neuchatel Xamax for test games.

The player's manager, Hasan Egilmez, revealed to SuperSport.com that Neuchatel Xamax's invitation was finalised on Monday.

Akanbi, 17, is expected to feature in the 2012 Match World Cup in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates that will run from January 18 to 23.

"Keji on Monday got his invitation to top team from Switzerland, Neuchatel Xamax on Monday. We are securing his visa and in the next days he will leave Nigeria to take part in the tournament (2012 Match World Cup) with his new team, Neuchatel Xamax. The tournament will hold in Dubai," Egilmez said to SuperSport.com.

Egilmez also confirmed that Akanbi will be registered as an academy player and given special permission to play for Neuchatel Xamax seniors occasionally as he is still 17.

"Morenikeji is only 17 years and played last year in the Nigeria Premier League for Crown FC. He has also played for Nigeria's Under17 national team. He is one of the biggest talents in Nigerian football right now.
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"He is going into the first team (of Neuchatel Xamax). He will be registered as an academy player due to Fifa regulations and with special permission he can play first team," the player's manager said.

Akanbi scored eight times for Crown FC, which was relegated last season from the top flight in Nigeria.

The teenager and the Neuchatel Xamax squad will face Zenit St. Petersburg of Russia, FC Bunyodkor of Uzbekistan and the Iraqi Under23s in Group A of the 2012 Match World Cup.

Shakthar Donetsk, Etoile Sportive du Sahel from Tunisia, FC Rostov of Russia and Uzbekistan's Under23 side complete the eight-team tournament.

Neuchatel Xamax also have Super Eagles' attacking midfielder, Kalu Uche in their book.