England could have a new talented centre-half to choose…
Liverpool’s new £7m signing from Sporting Lisbon Tiago Ilori has refused to rule out the possibility of playing for England instead of Portugal at international level, reports the Telegraph.
Ilori will compete with fellow new signing Mamadou Sakho, Daniel Agger, Kolo Toure and Martin Skrtel for a starting spot at Anfield, and is very highly rated by the Liverpool hierarchy.
He was born in England, and was asked about whether he would like to one day play for the England national team.
“I think I would like to stay loyal to Portugal as I’ve played in every age group for them,” said the 20-year-old centre-half, who is known for his unbelievable speed.
“But I would never close any doors and there is no decision to make yet. If I have the choice then it is not a bad choice to have.”
Ilori has represented Portugal at every youth level, but is still allowed to play for England has he has not made a senior appearance for the side that have regularly knocked England out of tournaments over the past decade.
“I lived in a few places around Kentish Town,” Ilori added.
“I was eight when we moved to Portugal. My mum is Portuguese.
“I didn’t play in any football league when I was in London but just played with my friends.”
The youngster speaks with a perfect English accent, which should make adapting to the Premier League and the way of life in England much easier.
“My English family are originally from Manchester and they all moved to London,” he continued.
“My Dad was born in London as well.”
COMMENTS