England — 14 November 2012

I recently wrote an article about how England needs to persuade Liverpool youngster Raheem Sterling to represent the country at international level.

There is now the question of other youngsters such Wilfried Zaha and Carl Jenkinson committing their international futures to the Three Lions.

Included

Carl Jenkinson, Wilfried Zaha and Raheem Sterling have all been included in the England squad to face Sweden in a friendly match on Wednesday. All three are regarded as talented up-and-coming youngsters.

However, there may be a problem for England boss Roy Hodgson. All three youngsters have dual nationality and could play for other nations. Zaha was born in the Ivory Coast and Raheem Sterling was born in Jamaica.

The pair moved to England at an early age and have spent most of their lives in the country. Yet, it seems that both players could end up representing other countries. Jenkinson was born in England, but has a Finnish mother.

Undecided

Arsenal defender Carl Jenkinson has already stated that he would prefer to represent England at international level. However, while he is still uncapped at senior level he could still change his allegiances.

Zaha and Sterling on the hand are still undecided on where their international futures lie. The pair seem pretty open-minded about the issue. Zaha has had pleas from no other than former-Chelsea star Didier Drogba about representing his country of birth.

Meanwhile Sterling’s mother is believed to be in favour of the starlet representing his country of birth. Even if the youngsters play some part in the game against Sweden they will still be eligible to represent other nations.

Regulars

All three players are likely to find it hard becoming regulars in the England first team. However if they choose their alternative nations they are more likely to become regulars at international level. It will be a difficult decision for all three, but at the moment England boss Roy Hodgson needs all the up-and-coming players he can get his hands on.

Should starlets choose to represent England at international level?

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About Author

David Nugent

David is a 29 year-old football fan and journalist, who is passionate about the beautiful game. He is a lifelong supporter of Premier League Everton and likes nothing better than a healthy discussion about the world's favourite sport.

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