Brentford defender Michael Kayode has confirmed that he was approached to play for Nigeria but never considered switching his international allegiance after coming through the ranks of the Italian national youth teams.
Kayode is among the potential debutants called up by Italy for the upcoming international fixtures.
The Brentford defender has received his first senior Italy call-up, having already made his mark with the Azzurri at youth level, scoring the winning goal in the European Under-19 Championship final against Portugal to help Italy win the title for the first time.
“It was a very easy decision. I went through all the youth teams here. Nigeria approached me, but I never thought about changing national teams,” he said, according to Football Italia.
“I think Italy have always been a great national team, and playing here is an honour.
“I didn’t know about the Italy call-up before the game [against Chelsea]; I found out at the final whistle, on my phone. It was an incredible emotion, especially after such a big win.”
A former Fiorentina defender, Kayode has made 63 appearances for Brentford, scoring two goals and providing three assists.
