Eddie Nketiah finally embraces Ghana: “If Ghana calls me up, I’ll be there.”

Crystal Palace striker Eddie Nketiah has finally opened the door to representing Ghana at the international level after years of uncertainty and rejection from England’s senior side.

The 25-year-old Ghanaian born in Lewisham has been on the radar of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for a very long time, with the association having made several efforts to convince him to don the Black Stars jersey.

Nketiah, a revelation at Arsenal before Crystal Palace, played for England at all youth levels and even got a senior call-up in 2023 to face Scotland and Ukraine.

But he failed to make the match-day squad and has not been under consideration since.

In an on-the-record interview for The Beautiful Game podcast, Nketiah revealed a turnaround of views.

“When I was younger, representing England was an option after progressing through the youth system. But if Ghana invites me, then I’ll be there.”

The declarations are a significant milestone in Ghana’s pursuit of the striker. Nketiah, who has had an unfruitful season so far at Selhurst Park with just one goal and assist in 25 matches, could view the transfer as a fresh start.

His availability to play for Ghana now could be an enormous confidence booster for the Black Stars, who are still searching for forwards ahead of crucial international fixtures.

If Ghana will take action on this newest development, however, remains to be seen, but fans will pray that this time, Nketiah is actually ready.