21 May 2023 , 16:31
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Gareth Southgate has been accused of "English arrogance" which led to underestimated Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun choosing to play for USMNT over England at senior level.
New York-born Balogun, 21, has been subject to an international tug-of-war for some time, with his country of birth, the US, England, and Nigeria all options for the striker to represent. However, his form in France for Reims accelerated the race for Balogun's international allegiance, with the on-loan forward scoring 20 goals in 36 appearances across all competitions.
Balogun had represented both England and the US at youth level and there was hope that a senior Three Lions call-up was on its way for March's fixtures.
However, the youngster was snubbed and he later appeared to aim a thinly-veiled dig at England manager Southgate, who selected captain Harry Kane and Ivan Toney instead.
And with the season nearing its conclusion, Balogun decided his international future, choosing to represent the US going forward. Balogun will be in with a good chance of representing his country at the 2026 World Cup, with the US playing host alongside Mexico and Canada.
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Retired US midfielder Eric Wynalda has claimed that "English arrogance" played a part in Balogun turning his back on the Three Lions in favour of the USMNT.
Folarin Balogun has chosen to represent the United States (Getty)"Gareth Southgate has certainly made some missteps here with his comments about the talented American playing in France," said 104-capped National Soccer Hall of Famer Wynalda on The Action Network.
"Southgate said: 'We can't just hand out international opportunities to a player simply because we don't want them to play for somebody else'. Whoops - If he could take that one back now I think he would.
"Southgate has completely underestimated Folarin's ability and tried to shrug it off. Sorry, but there are times where English arrogance needs to be illuminated and this is one of them."
Balogun will undoubtedly have a point to prove, with England's long-term No9 for life after Harry Kane up in the air. Toney, Tammy Abraham and Ollie Watkins just a few names who'll be jostling to lead the Three Lions' line long-term.
"Not only is he an extremely talented player, he's also a good man who is going to add value to our national team both on and off the field at a time when the team is continuing to improve," the US' interim coach Anthony Hudson said in a statement. "It's clear that he values his U.S. roots and we can't wait for him to come in and be a part of the team."