EBERECHI Eze is adamant he made the right choice in opting to play for England’s Three Lions instead of Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
The Crystal Palace midfielder was pursued by the Nigeria Football Federation for a long time, with former president Amaju Pinnick even paying him visits in London in an effort to persuade him.
He was also invited by the Super Eagles as far back as 2017 but he has insisted that he has no regrets waiting for his England chance.
Eze is on the verge of his senior England debut after being called up for the Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta North Marcedonia and Malta.
Eze, 24, was born in England to Nigerian parents and was eligible for both countries before making his decision.
“I don’t know when I decided,” Eze told reporters in London when asked about his decision.
“I received a call and felt as though it was the right decision to make. I’m very, very happy to be here.
“Speaking to people around me, my family and my wife – getting good advice from the people around me – to think about what the best decision is for myself and for my career. We think this (playing for England) is the best one.
“It’s a big opportunity for me – it’s the highest level of football. I look at it with no regret at all.”
Eze had an impressive campaign with Crystal Palace last season, registering 10 goals and four assists as he thrived under Roy Hogson after the former England manager took over from Patrick Vieira.
He is hopeful of making his Three Lions debut for Gareth Southgate’s side on Friday when England travel to Malta.
“Potentially,” Eze said. “My main focus is training well, doing what I can do and being the best version of myself. That decision is for Gareth to make.
“It’s something I have been working towards for a long time. I’m grateful it’s happened now and I’m in a position to show myself and be in and amongst this level.”
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