An England star has expressed how proud he is of his African heritage, and revealed why he chose not to represent a certain country on the continent.
Manchester United starlet Kobbie Mainoo made his first appearance at a major tournament for the Three Lions when he came on as a substitute in their 1-0 win over Serbia in their opening 2024 UEFA European Championship encounter on Sunday.
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This came after he made his debut for the national side in March earlier this year. Before that, however, there was speculation surrounding his international future and where his allegiance would lie.
Mainoo had previously been eligible to represent Ghana's Black Stars as he was born in England to Ghanaian parents, and it is understood that both nations were eager to secure his services.
The 18-year-old has, however, revealed that it had always been his life-long dream to represent the country he was born in, despite giving some thought to representing the African nation.
"Obviously, I'm proud of my Ghanaian heritage and there was speculation and whatnot," the midfielder said in a press conference ahead of England next match at EURO 2024 against Denmark, per africanfootball.com.
"But It has always been a dream to play for England so I'm happy to be here.
"I considered [Ghana] but I want to play for England."
The teenager made his mark at United over the course of the 2023/24 campaign, making 24 Premier League appearances and contributing with three goals and one assist.
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Now, Mainoo will not only be looking to get some minutes under his belt against Denmark on Thursday evening, but he will also be keen on stamping his authority on the side too.
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