Source: Telegraph
Everton's Mikel Arteta could be eligible for England in January 2010
Arteta will have been resident in this country for five years by then, having moved to Goodison Park in January 2005, allowing him to apply for dual nationality and making him available for selection by Fabio Capello.[LNB]Despite blossoming into one of the Premier League's most accomplished midfielders while at Everton, Arteta's claims for a call-up to the Spanish squad have been steadfastly overlooked by both Luis Aragones and his successor, Vicente Del Bosque.[LNB]Arteta has not given up hope of representing his homeland and even earning a place in their squad for the 2010 World Cup, but knows plying his trade for an unfashionable club abroad does not enhance his case.[LNB]As Capello witnessed first-hand in the 2-0 defeat in Seville last week, Arteta faces an uphill struggle to break into Del Bosque's thoughts. As well as his starting midfield of Xavi, Andres Iniesta, Marcos Senna and Xabi Alonso, the former Real Madrid coach has the likes of Cesc Fabregas, Sevilla's Diego Capel, Villarreal playmaker Santi Cazorla and the Valencia duo of David Silva and Juan Mata to call on.[LNB]Sources close to the player have revealed he has not "closed the door" on switching his international allegiance in an attempt to prove himself on the world stage, though it is thought Arteta would have reservations about turning out for a land other than that of his birth.[LNB]However, should he remain in the international wilderness by the end of the year, he may consider the possibility of becoming an England player, linking up with his Everton team-mates Phil Jagielka and Joleon Lescott on the World Cup trail.[LNB]FA sources admit they would not be keen to select a foreign-born player but acknowledge it is something that would be considered should the England manager desire to do so. [LNB]
