TULSA – More international experience is coming to FC Tulsa's roster. The club has signed Nigerian midfielder, Raphael Ayagwa, to its 2020 roster, pending league and federation approval. Ayagwa has one cap for the Nigerian national team, a substitute appearance for the Super Eagles in the 2017 African Nations Championship, making him the league’s only active rostered USL Championship player with an international appearance for Nigeria's senior team.

“With the addition of Raphael into our core of midfielders, we have brought in a commanding presence to add balance,” said FC Tulsa head coach Michael Nsien. “Raphael is a dedicated ball winner and a very technical short and long-range passer. At such a young age, he shows a gift in ball progression and taking up positions that affect the game in transition. Raphael has elite qualities that has gotten him invitations and caps for his home country of Nigeria. His signing goes to show the growth of not only FC Tulsa, but also the development of our league.”

Ayagwa’s lone appearance for Nigeria, in a 2-0 win over Benin on August 19, 2017, could make him a historical figure in the USL Championship. If the 21-year-old sees the field for FC Tulsa, he would become just the second player to play in the USL Championship following an appearance for Nigeria’s national team.

“I am overwhelmed to be a part of this great family,” said Ayagwa. “I believe with hard work, determination and dedication, we will surely conquer. I’m looking forward to working with the great fans of the club, and I promise to be a good ambassador of FC Tulsa.”

Most recently, Ayagwa played for Lillestøm SK, then of the Norwegian Eliteserien, the top division of Norwegian soccer. He made three appearances over two years for Lillestrøm in league competition. He was transferred to Lillestrøm from Plateau United FC of the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) where he played during the 2017/18 season.

While with Plateau United, Ayagwa made an appearance in the CAF-Champions League, the most prestigious club soccer tournament on the continent, scoring a goal in the club’s First Round defeat. He also scored the only goal during Plateau’s Second Leg CAF-Champions League Qualifying victory to advance to the knockout. He made his professional debut for Lobi Stars FC of the NPFL in the 2016/17 season.

Ayagwa becomes the 20th player signed to FC Tulsa’s 2020 roster.