The call-up of Ivorian-born Wilfried Zaha to the England national team has sparked controversy, particularly in Ivory Coast. England’s coach, Roy Hodgson, clarified the situation, emphasizing that Zaha’s selection was based on his performances over the past two years and was not intended to harm Ivory Coast. Hodgson mentioned that Zaha had been on his radar for some time, and the decision was part of a logical progression from the under-19s and under-21s to the senior level. Despite Zaha’s call-up to the England team, Hodgson stated that if a player wishes to play for another national team, they are free to do so. Zaha himself acknowledged that his future with the England national team is uncertain, describing it as “50-50.” Ivory Coast still has a chance to see Zaha play for them in the future.
HODGSON RETURNS TO THE ZAHA CASE
