However, he said his Nigerian birth and ancestry has a great emotional power.

Nigeria have already made the youngster aware they would like him to become a Super Eagle – while, until he is selected, England will not demand allegiance.

Aware of the politics that would accompany a decision to play for Nigeria, Onuoha – 23 tomorrow – has opted for stalling tactics.

“It is a tough call,” he said. “I would love to play for England. But I also get a certain feeling when I see Nigeria play. I can imagine myself really enjoying it and wanting to be part of it.

“But it is not that simple. If you play for England that is fine. However, if I choose to play for Nigeria there would be a lot of politics involved and a lot of administrative issues. It is not the best time to make such a big decision, so for now I am not making one.”

With Nigeria unlikely to make the World Cup – they need Tunisia to lose against Mozambique while they beat Kenya – the carrot of a place in South Africa cannot be dangled in front of the highly intelligent defender.

But Onuoha would not have been swayed anyway, preferring instead to concentrate on his club career while the issue resolves itself.

“I would like to think I am young enough to see another World Cup,” he said. “I think it is made easier because I enjoy club football. That is my main focus.

“If a time comes when I have to make a decision I will speak to a few people and hope to make the right call.”

Onuoha has, meanwhile, confirmed he is fit after a recent thigh injury and will be available for tomorrow’s friendly with the United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi.

He has yet to play for a single minute of the current campaign but is looking to force his way into Mark Hughes’ plans for the Barclays Premier League trip to Liverpool on November 21.