Arsenal's Clichy almost choose England over France

Arsenal defender Gael Clichy almost made the international switch from France to the Three Lions.

The full back has won three caps for France, but admits that he was tempted by playing for England after discovering he was eligible.

"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 the Gunners' official website.

"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."

Despite that pride though, Clichy admits that he has begun to feel 'homesick' for England when back in France.

"When I go back home now [after] about two or three weeks I feel like I have to come back to England so that shows how at home I feel here," he added.

"I love it here and I hope I will stay here for a long time. I don't know if I would stay here after my playing career but it is possible.

"If I have children one day I would like them to speak English. Instead of going to America I would rather they come to London because I love it here, the people are really warm and welcoming."

 
Click here for more Arsenal news and comment from Arsene Wenger