SHOLA AMEOBI could be playing in next year’s World Cup Finals after a change in FIFA rules opened the door for the Nigerian-born striker.

Nigeria’s national coach Shaibu Amodu has revealed that he has added the Newcastle striker to the list of players he is trying to recruit as he kicks off a programme to attract players who are now eligible to play for the Super Eagles.

FIFA voted in June to remove the age limit on changing national teams allowing the likes of Ameobi, who was capped at U21 level by England, to play for the full Nigeria side.

Ameobi scored seven times during his three-year spell with England U21s but his Nigerian roots could see him feature in the finals in South Africa next June.

Ameobi is currently sidelined after sustaining a stress fracture to his foot but his impressive start to the season has put him firmly on the radar of the Nigeria manager.

If Amodu’s side can overcome Tunisia today they will go top of their qualification group.

In the meantime, Chris Hughton has been urged to make Tim Krul Newcastle’s number one goalkeeper by the Dutchman’s international manager.

The 21-year-old has found himself playing second fiddle to Steve Harper during the Magpies’ Championship campaign.

Krul’s heroics in the Magpies’ opening fixture at West Brom have not proved sufficient to oust the experienced Harper and Holland U21 coach Cor Pot is concerned that the youngster’s role on the sidelines is preventing him from fulfilling his potential.

“I am not too happy about Tim’s situation at Newcastle United. They seem to prefer experienced players rather than young talents in England,”

said Pot.

Krul’s continued role on the substitutes’ bench at St James’ Park did not prevent Pot from handing him the captain’s armband for last night’s UEFA Under-21 Championship qualifying fixture against Finland. However, he has warned the keeper, who began his career at ADO Den Haag, that unless he breaks into the Newcastle first team his international place is under threat.

“Tim will have to make appearances at club level in order to be selected for the national teams,” he said.

Krul, who hopes to emulate his hero Edwin van der Sar, acknowledged that he can’t take his spot for granted.

“I know every time I am with Holland, I have to prove myself again,” he said.

“That is normal. The last few weeks have given me great experience at club level.

But now I have to focus on playing for my country; the target is the same for club and country.”

Newcastle have announced that season tickets are now on general sale.

Supporters in the Family Area will be able to watch the Magpies in action for just £17 a match during the 2009/10 season. A season ticket for a parent and child will cost £400 for the season, an adult season ticket will cost £300 and a junior season ticket (18 or younger) will cost £100.

Season ticket prices have been reduced by an average of 9% across the stadium.

Season tickets can be bought online via nufc.co.uk or by calling 0844 372 1892.