Swiss and Stoke City winger Xherdan Shaqiri has claimed he is thinking about declaring for Kosovo having been overlooked as Swiss captain.
The 24-year-old has been an integral part of the Swiss side since his debut in 2010, and has netted 17 goals in his 54 international appearances.
However despite his undoubted value within the squad, he doesn't seem to be taking the captaincy snub very well, suggesting he could leave the Swiss panel - and opt to play for Kosovo.
Shaqiri is quoted by The Guardian as saying:
“What if the coach of Kosovo wants me as the captain? Of course, I am thinking about it then."
Despite having represented Switzerland on the international stage more than 50 times, the Stoke City winger might be allowed to switch allegiances and represent Kosovo because they have recently been recognised by FIFA.
Born to Kosovar-Albanian parents, Shaqiri's family emigrated to Switzerland in 1992. Kosovo, now recognised by FIFA as a nation after they were admitted to compete internationally in 2013 - will take part in the 2018 World Cup qualifiers. Under FIFA's eligibility rules, players may be allowed to declare for Kosovo, even if they've competed for another country.
Shaqiri is not the only member of Swiss panel that is eligible to represent Kosovo - players such Blerim Dzemaili, Granit Xhaka and Valon Behrami could yet choose to play for Kosovo. A similar situation exists withing the Albanian squad, with Taulant Xhaka among the players eligible for Kosovo.
While it could be merely a ploy from Shaqiri as wants to remain the centre of attention - the situation is very real and there remains a possibility that a number of players might choose to follow their heritage and declare for Kosovo.
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