Former Super Eagles striker Shola Ameobi says he has not retired from football, and would consider joining the “right club”, if an offer comes his way.
The 36-year-old Ameobi has been without a club since he was released by Notts County over the summer, but he is yet to officially declare that his playing career is over.
The former Nigeria international scored 79 goals in 397 appearances for boyhood club Newcastle during a 14-year spell in the Magpies’ first team, before leaving St James’ Park in 2014.
Ameobi has also played for Turkish outfit Gaziantep, Crystal Palace, Bolton Wanderers, Fleetwood Town and, most recently, League Two side Notts County.
“I’m doing bits and bobs,” Ameobi told Sky Sports.
“I made a decision with the family that I wanted to be closer to Newcastle, which obviously limits the clubs you can look for.”
“I’ve kept myself fit and I haven’t retired officially. It would have to be the right club [for me to sign].”
“It’s not something I’m actively pursuing but, if something came up, I’d definitely be ready.”
Ameobi who has completed his coaching badges and UEFA A Licence also added that there’s still possibility that he could one day go into management – but a decision is yet to be made.
“I’ve had to think about the future. I’ve done all of my coaching badges and A Licence,” Ameobi added.
“I’ve been coaching with the academy for years now since I was at Newcastle. I enjoy passing on what I learnt because I grew up in that academy and have a lot of experiences.”