Former Black Starlets defender Najeed Yakubu expresses desire to naturalise for Ukraine

Ghanaian youth international Najeeb Yakubu has expressed his readiness and willingness to play for the Ukrainian national team in case they come calling.

The 18 year old right back, has been playing actively in the Ukrainian topflight with Vorskla Poltava since 2018 and has been very instrumental for the club- having inked a new four years contract last year.

 This season is of no exception as the ex- Black Starlets boy has been a regular figure in the ongoing season for the ‘Green and Whites’ playing 12 out of the 14 matches they have played so far leaving them 5th on the Ukrainian league with 21 points.

Speaking in an interview, the former Black Satellites star disclosed categorically clear that, he won’t hesitate any chance of playing for Ukraine since he’s taken there as his second home. 

Also, he noted he wants to become the first African or a black-skinned player to play for Andre Shevshenko’s men either now or in future. 

“Yes, I want to become the first black player in the Ukrainian national team. I want to. If there is such an opportunity, I will certainly agree.

 “I just want to, I like it in your country. Ukraine is my second home.” 

“Ghana is the home where I grew up. But … I love Ukraine, “Glory to Ukraine.” And one more thing: “I’m a fine lad”.

Najeeb Yakubu, 20, featured for the Black Starlets in both the 2017 U-17 World Cup (India) and the African Youth Championship (Gabon), of which they finished as runners up.

 Also, he was part of the Black Satellites squad that suffered group stage elimination in the 2019 Total CAF U-20 Cup of Nations which was also staged in Niger.

Source:ghanaweb