Schalke midfielder Jermaine Jones has pledged his international future to the USA. The 27-year-old has made three appearances for Germany but since all three of his caps came in friendly matches, he is still permitted to represent another nation.

As well as holding German citizenship, Jones also has a US passport and has therefore decided to switch allegiances.

He informed the German Football Association (DFB) of his decision today.

"We have accepted Jermaine Jones' decision," said Germany coach Joachim Low in a statement.

"I wish him all the best for his sporting future."

Germany will not try to block him from appearing for the USA in future.

"We have often emphasised how much we like to welcome many players with backgrounds of immigration into the Germany national team," explained team manager Oliver Bierhoff.

"This reflects the development of society in our country, but we have always emphasised that anybody who wears the DFB colours must identify with the national team and Germany.

"If a player does not see things this way, then that is his decision and we respect it."

Low recently awarded international debuts to Brazil-born striker Cacau and Mesut Ozil, who had the option of representing Turkey.

Jones' father hails from the USA, which accounts for his dual citizenship.