November 28 2016

Zaha opts for Ivory Coast

Wilfried Zaha has decided to switch international allegiances and play for the Ivory Coast.

Zaha, 24, who was born in Abidjan, has been frustrated with the lack of opportunities with England since earning two caps in friendlies, despite being one of the Premier League's in form players.

As the games he has played in for England were only friendlies, it has given the winger the opportunity to switch countries.

An Ivorian Football Federation statement said Zaha had sent a letter to Fifa on Sunday requesting a nationality change.

Alan Pardew said in his press conference last week that he has been "pushed forward, probably by his agent or people around him" to make the change but could "understand his frustration" at not being picked for England.

"There aren't many other English players who can beat players like he does in the Premier League. Some do, but they're not English," Pardew said.

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