Sheffield United star Lys Mousset has revealed that he is ready to represent West African country Senegal instead of France, on the international scene.
Born to former Senegalese player Emilien Mendy and a French mother, Mousset is eligible to play for either nation, and has featured 16 times for both France’s U-20 and U-21 teams, but is yet to receive a call up to the senior team.
Despite being born in France, the 24-year-old has expressed his love for Senegal, revealing that he follows the national team and supports them ‘crazily’.
“It is true that I have always been attracted to Senegal. I don’t watch a lot of football, but when Senegal play I am always in front of my TV. I support them like crazy,” Mousset told Goal.com.
“The story with the French team is not over because I don’t have a selection yet, but if Senegal called me I would say yes,” he added.
Mousset is enjoying his best season so far in the English top-flight, as he has managed five goals and four assists for Sheffield United, already bettering his three goals in three seasons for Bournemouth.
The striker further revealed that his close friend and Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy already made him aware of Senegal coach Aliou Cisse’s admiration for him.
“Edouard just told me that the coach has been following me for a long time. For me, Senegal has always been at the back of my mind.
“But first I wanted to rediscover the joy of being successful with my club and it was done with Sheffield, after very complicated moments in Bournemouth,” he said.
He disclosed his discussion with Senegal’s head coach Aliou Cisse recently, and he anticipates his maiden invitation to the nation’s senior team.
“Yes, he called me. Everything went very well. He asked me if I was well and if Emilien Mendy was indeed my father. I replied “yes” and he asked me for his number to speak with him.”
“He didn’t tell me he was going to select me, but if it were to happen I would be delighted. I will look carefully at the next list and hope I will be there,” he continued.
