Melbourne Victory defender has his eyes on representing the Socceroos.
Adama Traore has reportedly turned down an approach from his native Ivory Coast to pursue his dream of playing for the Socceroos at the 2014 World Cup.
The 23-year-old has represented his homeland at under-17, under-19 and under-20 level and was apparently earmarked for progression up to the senior Elephants squad for the showpiece in Brazil next year after flourishing under Ange Postecoglou at Melbourne Victory.
Traore, however, has different ideas and has revealed a desire to represent his adopted home of Australia and the left back is eager provide an answer to Holger Osieck’s problem position, with his citizenship expected to be confirmed in mid-September.
“I was asked last year if I would be interested in playing for Cote d’Ivoire but Australia is my home now and that was my answer,” Traore explained to The World Game.
“These are always hard decisions but I am happy here and would love to one day play for Australia, if the coach thinks I am good enough to be selected.
“I watch the Socceroos whenever they play and I wonder what it would be like to maybe join then one day.”
“I am not sure when the citizenship will go ahead but hopefully that will be soon … I am just waiting and hoping.
“I feel at home in this country and I would love to be with the national team. I am settled in Melbourne and maybe one day I will get the chance.”
Traore, who missed a large chunk 2012/13A-League season after rupturing his ankle ligaments in March, arrived Down Under in 2009 when he joined Gold Coast United and was considered the best left back in the division until injury struck.
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