England Under-21s’ top scorer asked to switch allegiance despite cap

One Premier League star could soon change his international allegiance

England Under-21s top scorer Eddie Nketiah is reportedly in talks to switch his team despite already being eligible to play for the Three Lions. The Crystal Palace striker has one cap for England, in a friendly against Australia in October 2023.

The 27-year-old, a former Arsenal striker, is England Under-21s’ all-time top scorer with 16 goals in 17 appearances for the young Three Lions. However, The Standard claims that Ghana has already begun talks with the striker to convince him to change his allegiances.

Nketiah is reportedly considering his next move and deciding whether to represent his parents’ country of birth or continue playing for England.

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The Crystal Palace striker remains eligible to represent Ghana under current FIFA rules. They state that a player cannot transfer to another nation if they have played more than three senior competitive games.

The Black Stars are looking to improve the quality of their ranks in the Premier League, with Ghana represented by the likes of Manchester City winger Antoine Semenyo and Coventry midfielder Caleb Jirenki.

Nketiah has made a bright start to life under new Eagles coach Pierre Sage, starting all three of his best matches this season.

However, it is fair to say that he has struggled for goals since moving to Selhurst Park, with just four goals in 19 appearances last season compared to the seven he scored in his first year at the club.

Speaking about his start under Sage this season, Nketiah said: “I would say the team is a bit more active.

“We want to push higher, be a little more aggressive. I think it’s obvious that it’s a different style, even though the system is the same.”

“It’s a little different style than we played last year, but I liked it. I think he [Sage] really demanding – and not only him, the entire coaching staff, players…

“The quality of training has increased. I think everyone is ready for these short and intense classes.

“I think it will stand us in good stead in the coming games and I’m confident we can start picking up points and moving up the table.”