Ameobi handed first call-up

Newcastle United striker Shola Ameobi has been handed his first call-up by Nigeria for a friendly next week against Venezuela in Miami. Ameobi featured for England at various age levels before he was cleared this year to play for the country of his birth. Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel as well as team-mate Victor Moses and Levante striker Obafemi Martins have also been included on the Nigeria squad. Poor form and injuries have restricted Martins' appearances for his country, but his recent transfer to Levante in the Spanish top flight appears to have revived his career. Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi will also name 15 players from the Nigeria Premier League for the match, which forms part of the country's build-up for next year's CAF Africa Cup of Nations. From Fifa