Bournemouth star Philip Billing has revealed that he is considering switching his international allegiance to Nigeria.
The development comes after he missed out on Denmark’s Euro 2020 squad.
The midfielder has one senior cap for Denmark, which came in October last year in a friendly against Faroe Islands. But due to FIFA rules, the Copenhagen-born ace is still eligible to leave the Danes behind and instead represent Nigeria, reports the Bournemouth Echo.
“My father is from Nigeria, so I have been thinking about it and I know Nigeria wants me very much,” said Billing, in quotes translated from an interview with Danish outlet BT.
“I have talked to the coach several times, so it is something I have thought about more after I have not been selected for the European Championship.
“There is also soon a World Cup that I will have to think about. I am almost 25 years old and I have only played one international match. I also have something I want to achieve in my career.”
He continued: “It (switching) is something I’ve been thinking about. I will not lie about that.
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“But it is a decision that I must have thought through more. I will not get younger, and as a child I had a dream of playing in the World Cup.
“I cannot say, however, it is over with regard to the Danish national team. For I also feel one has to be patient, but now it has just been a long time since I have been overlooked. There are a lot of things I just have to go through in my head.”
On being snubbed for Euro 2020, the Bournemouth midfielder expressed his frustration.
“Of course it is disappointing and frustrating, but I do not choose who will be on the national team. I’m trying to do my thing over here in England…If I do not get selected, that’s how it is. I can do nothing about it.
“I hadn’t counted on it after the recent selections. Also, I do not know if Hjulmand takes players he knows in advance. Only he knows.”
Billing says boss Hjulmand rang to inform him he’d been left out.
“He just explained that I was not selected, but that I should stay fresh and ready,” said Billing.
