Pinnick’s efforts to cap Eberechi Eze for Nigeria may have failed

Outingoing  NFF president Amaju Pinnick years-long effort to get Crystal Palace midfielder Eberechi Eze to play for the Super Eagles may be in vain as he is closing in on a late England call for the World Cup.

Midfield magician Eze is making a big impression on boss Gareth Southgate and his staff.

He has come back with a bang after a long lay-off with Achilles tendon trouble.

Eze, 23, has dazzled lately and brings the kind of skills that could grace the international stage and add to the Three Lions group.

Palace have been on the England watch-list because of midfielder Conor Gallagher and defenders Marc Guehi and Tyrick Mitchell.

Now Eze is finishing the season strongly after a steady return to fitness since October.

Southgate has Phil Foden, Mason Mount and Jack Grealish down the left side of his midfield and attack but Eze is now being seriously considered for a place.

Eze can play wide and even move into the middle.

He was on the brink of an England breakthrough before he was injured in training at the end of last season. Now a call-up would complete his return.

The Eagles will fend off any interest in Eze this summer with Aston Villa and Newcastle long-term admirers.

Born in England to Nigeria parents, Eze is eligible to play for Nigeria or England.