Arsenal fullback Gael Clichy admits he seriously considered declaring for England.

The thought of switching football allegiances crossed Clichy's mind and, speaking before the international break, he explained why.

"I had been in England for five years, it was before I had played for France and, if the English people wanted me to be English, I could have played for England," he told Arsenal.com.

"I thought about it because I feel really good here, I feel really at home here. I can imagine being an English player because of the way their fans love football. The way they are proud of the national team is just amazing and I think any player would like to feel this. England is a special place for a footballer.

"I didn't do anything about it because at the end of the day I spoke with my father and I love France. I am really proud to be a French international and I wouldn't give this away for anything."