Lesley Ugochukwu, Rennes midfielder and nephew of former Super Eagles defender Onyekachi Akpam, has been picked by UEFA in the Top 40 players under 21 who will take Europe by storm in New Year.
The 18-year-old Ugochukwu was more prominent with his French Ligue 1 side last season.
With his physical presence and defensive qualities, he has been widely compared to former France and Arsenal great Patrick Vieira.
He has been capped by France at underage level, but could still change his international allegiance to Nigeria.
