BRENTFORD Football Club defender Michael Kayode has confirmed that he will wait for a call-up to Italy’s senior national team despite being eligible to represent Nigeria.
News Point Nigeria Sport reports that the 21-year-old footballer made the declaration in an interview with Tuttosport, where he stated clearly that his priority remains continuing his international career with Italy.
Kayode, who was born in Italy to Nigerian parents, remains eligible to represent either country at senior level, but insisted that his focus is firmly on the Italian national team.
“I will always give priority to Italy: even at youth level, I grew up wearing the Azzurri shirt,” Kayode told Tuttosport.
“I hope to achieve this dream as soon as possible, but I have no doubt about which path to choose,” he added.
The defender also disclosed that he held talks with former Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso ahead of the World Cup play-off in March, although he was eventually omitted from the squad.
“Yes, we also had dinner with other [Italian] Premier League players,” Kayode admitted.
“I was doing well, I felt involved even without being called up for the play-offs.”
Kayode’s comments are expected to end growing speculation over his international future, particularly among Nigerian football fans hoping he could eventually switch allegiance to the Nigeria national football team.
The young defender has continued to attract attention with his performances in England and was recently nominated for the Premier League Young Player of the Season award.
