Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah has revealed why he picked England ahead of Ghana at the international level.
Despite having represented England at the youth level with the U21, the 24-year-old was still eligible to represent Ghana’s Black Stars. However, despite having expressed his interest in representing the Black Stars in the past, and had a series of discussions with officials from both nations, he was called up to the England squad and is in line to make his debut.
“Both sides were always an option,” said Nketiah,” adding: “Naturally coming through the academy in England you have the aspiration to play here – once the call-up was there and the offer was on the table it was really hard to turn down, and something which I felt was a natural progression for myself at this stage.”
Speaking at England’s training headquarters, St George’s Park, Nketiah added: “I’m really happy to be here, proud to be here and looking forward to helping the team. Obviously, I’ve been here a few times but it does feel different – it’s extra special. You’re mixing with great players, obviously a great manager as well. So just that sense of pride to be here, to progress through the age groups is obviously a nice feeling and to get here is a nice step.”
Nketiah is now poised for his senior debut with England when they face Poland in their first game of the break against Ukraine on September 9. His decision to represent England rather than Ghana marks a significant moment in his international career.