Everton’s Spanish midfielder Mikel Arteta understands he will be able to apply for English citizenship and then play for England by 2010.
The 26-year-old has never been called up to represent his homeland at international level despite his solid reputation and promising spells at Paris Saint Germain, Rangers and Everton.
Arteta joined The Toffees in January 2005 and imposed himself as a key player and a Premier League star but, despite his status, the midfielder is yet to play for La Roja.
Like Manuel Almunia, Arteta understands playing for England could be an option for him, but the Basque has set his sights on representing his own country in the future.
Arteta told As: “(…) when you play for five years within a country you have the right to represent their national team.
“I will complete it in 2010. But I’d prefer to play for Spain.”
He added: “To me, playing for Spain would be a pleasure, I’d love to play for such a great team.
“I must wait and see, and I’m aware that there’s massive competition in midfield.”
[Credit: Setanta]
Subscribe Now To Get More Premier League Updates!
