Rennes starlet Jires Ekoko says he dreams of representing France at international level.
Rennes starlet Jires Ekoko says he dreams of representing France at international level.The 18-year-old Congo-born striker moved to France at the age of six, hoping to make his name as a professional footballer.
Pierre Dreossi's (pictured) protege signed his first professional contract in June and has committed to Stade Rennais for the next three years.
He has already featured as a fringe man in Ligue 1 this season, but wants to establish himself for both club and country in the future.
"When I joined Rennes a number of big French clubs wanted to sign me: Monaco, Paris [Saint Germain], Lens and Lyon," Ekoko told Ouest-France.
"But I was seduced by Rennes' academy.
"I think I made a good choice because I immediately felt I was at home.
"The competition is hard, so I have to improve on my weak points. I am young and only think about scoring goals.
"I will obtain French nationality soon. My dream is to wear the Bleus shirt, as I have refused to play for Congo."
Rennes have made a poor start to the season so far, with only six points to show from their opening eight games.
With the attack struggling to fire Ekoko may yet realise his ambitions of featuring more heavily for the North Western France outfit this season.
