Obi Melifonwu flew the flag for Great Britain at Super Bowl as London-born NFL star lands ring despite not playing in Atlanta for New England Patriots
- Obi Melifonwu, 24, is on New England Patriots' roster but did not play
- Melifonwu was released by Oakland Raiders in October due to injury
- He made three appearances for the Patriots but missed the Super Bowl
Obi Melifonwu thanked fans in the United Kingdom for cheering on the New England Patriots following their 13-3 win over Los Angeles Rams.
London-born Melifonwu, who was born in England but moved to the States aged just three, was delighted to get his hands on a ring after Sunday night's win in Atlanta.
A beaming Melifonwu said on Instagram: 'To all the people in the UK. We really appreciate your support. Thank you for all your love. We couldn't have done it without you. Pats Nation appreciates it. We world champions baby.'
Obi Melifonwu poses with the Great Britain flag ahead of Sunday night's Super Bowl
Melifonwu poses with his friends and family ahead of the Super Bowl in Atlanta
London-born Melifonwu holds up a Great Britain flag following his side's Super Bowl win
The 24-year-old was released by the Oakland Raiders in October as he struggled with injuries towards the start of the season.
The Patriots decided to add Melifonwu to their roster following his release and the safety went on to play three games for the champions as they tasted glory for the sixth time.
His family and friends travelled to Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium to cheer on Melifonwu and his team-mates.
His fitness trainer girlfriend Alyssa Okada was a proud onlooker as she watched Melifonwu celebrate his team's success.
Melifonwu was selected by the Oakland Raiders in the second round of the NFL Draft back in 2017.
Melifonwu, who lived in Islington during his time in London, had been considered a fringe first-round prospect but had to wait until the 56th overall pick when the Raiders made their move.
Melifonwu holds up girlfriend Alyssa Okada on the eve of Sunday's Super Bowl in Atlanta
Alyssa was on hand to cheer on her boyfriend as the Patriots won their sixth Super Bowl
Safety Melifonwu poses with his fitness trainer girlfriend in July 2018 during the offseason
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