Source: Team_Talk
Reo-Coker spurns Sierra Leone
Aston Villa midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker has rejected an invitation to play for Sierra Leone, leaving the door open for an England call-up. [LNB] England-born Reo-Coker, who has Sierra Leonean roots, was a target of Leone Stars coach Christian Cole. [LNB]Sky Sports revealed earlier this week that the Villa man would not be accepting a call-up from the West African side and the 26-year-old has confirmed he contacted the Sierra Leone FA informing them he would like to retain the option of playing for England. [LNB]"I'm flattered by the invitation to play for Sierra Leone and I want to thank the SLFA as I consider it as a mark of respect," said Reo-Coker. [LNB]"But I can't play for Sierra Leone because at the moment my concentration is to win a regular place in my club Aston Villa.[LNB]"Besides, I believe I still have the prospect to play for England as I'm still young to fight for a place." [LNB]Reo-Coker captained England at Under-21 level but is yet to feature for the senior side, meaning he is eligible to play for the Leone Stars under Fifa's national regulations. [LNB]Nahim Khadi, the president of the SFLA, was naturally disappointed with the midfielder's decision to turn down the offer. [LNB]"I'm disappointed with Reo-Coker's decision because I was convinced that he would accept our invitations," said Khadi. [LNB]"I think he knows what's best for him and he believes the decision he has taken is his own best interest." [LNB]Reo-Coker is the second English footballer of Sierra Leona descent to have spurned an offer to play for the West African nation in recent months. [LNB]Barnet striker Steve Kabba, a former Crystal Palace and Sheffield United man, also rejected an invitation to join the Leone Stars.
