2 years ago
Prior to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Arsenal forward Edward Nketiah has stated that he is willing to switching his international allegiance from England to Ghana.
Despite representing his country of birth at youth level, the 22-year-old striker, who was born in London to Ghanaian parents, is eligible to play for either nation at senior level.
After the Black Stars defeated Nigeria to win a spot in the 2018 World Cup, where they have been drawn against Portugal, Uruguay, and South Korea, speculation about a change of international preference has grown.
"Since both of my parents are Ghanaians, it's a possibility." Nketiah told The Beautiful Game podcast, "I am open to both — playing for Ghana or England."
"Like you stated, I've played for the youth teams, so they naturally called me up to go play for them when I was obviously younger."
"As a Ghanaian, you must be overjoyed that your country has qualified for the World Cup." I know players like [Thomas] Partey, and I'm delighted for them.
"It's always nice to have the chance to accomplish something like that."
Nketiah is one of three England youth internationals on Ghana's World Cup radar, with Brighton & Hove Albion defender Tariq Lamptey and Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi the other two.
Nketiah, who is out of contract with Arsenal at the end of the season, has set his sights on resolving his club future before deciding on his international future.
The attacker stated, "My club situation [out of contract at the end of the season] is the focus."
"Right now, my only concentration is on my club [Arsenal] and ensuring that things are in order for next season."
"Once that's done, I'll be able to sit down with my family and have that conversation." So it's open to both [countries], and I'm not ruling anything out.
"It's fantastic to have this opportunity."
Nketiah has had little game time at Arsenal this season, making only 14 Premier League matches.
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