Evra's admission - It becomes politics, I should have chosen Senegal

For many athletes of African origin - and there are many who have some connection to European countries - their wish in most cases is to get the passport of the linked European nation. Most of the time it's the quality of life and a chance to play sports at the highest possible international level that's decisive but there are those who sooner or later feel that their motherland would be a better choice.

Manchester United legend Patrice Evra could be included in that 'later' group. Former Monaco, Juventus, Marseille and West Ham footballer has spoken about the tricky decision he had to make over whether to play for Senegal or France.

Evra eventually chose to play for France, and won 81 caps for Les Bleus between 2004 and 20016. The former left-back was born in Dakar, the capital of Senegal, and moved to France when he was a child.

Now 41 years old, Evra was visiting Ghana where he met President Nana Akufo-Addo. During his visit he spoke of the choice he had to make over his international career.

“I’m born in Dakar, I played for France." Evra said.

“When I was young my parents gave me the choice to pick my national team, and growing up in France I picked France.

“But I understand later, it's really important to pick your own country, because it becomes politics.

“When you win you are a French player, when you lose you are a Senaglese player.”

Evra was one of the world's best left-backs and won a whole host of accolades at club level with the likes of Man Utd and Juventus. Since retiring from football in 2019 he has earned his coaching badges, and has also worked as a TV pundit.

Many France players have African origins, due to post-World War Two labour policies, which saw an influx of workers from French colonies and former colonies to ease a labour crisis. Many players in England's own set-up share dual nationality with other countries, with the likes of Michail Antonio and Wilfried Zaha ultimately choosing to represent Jamaica and the Ivory Coast respectively.