Thursday 2 April 2020 12:30, UK
Wilfried Zaha has rejected Gareth Southgate’s suggestion there was a timescale set on England selection before opting for the Ivory Coast, and dismissed questions over his “desire”.
The Crystal Palace winger made two friendly appearances for the Three Lions but opted to represent the country of his birth in 2016, with Southgate saying he had tried to persuade Zaha to choose his side, but insisted he wanted players "who are desperate to play for England".
Southgate also claimed there was "this disappearing egg timer on him [Zaha] going to the Ivory Coast", but a statement on behalf of Zaha, made by representative Will Salthouse of Unique Sports Management, has denied those suggestions.
The statement also said the player had already made a decision on his international future before the 46-year-old was appointed England boss on a full-time basis after an interim spell in charge.
"In light of recent comments and reports questioning Wilfried's desire or passion to play for England I feel it important to set the record straight," the statement said.
"Wilfried did not impose a timescale or set a date by which he had to be selected by England, there was no 'disappearing egg timer'.
"The 'private' meeting with Mr Southgate was very amicable, however the fact remains that Wilfried made his decision to play for the Ivory Coast prior to Mr Southgate being appointed interim and subsequently permanent England manager.
"It was Wilfried's personal choice and it was his right as a senior player to accept the opportunity to represent his nation of birth and that of his family heritage. His 'desire' or 'passion' should never have been publicly questioned for making that decision.
"Wilfried is very proud of his family and very proud to represent the Ivory Coast, most recently demonstrated by his performance against Russia."