Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta admits he would've played for England if given the chance.

While Arteta was at Everton, the then England boss Fabio Capello and FA chiefs probed whether the ex-Spain youth international was illegible for the Three Lions because of his time in the UK.

Fifa scuppered that plan, which disappointed Arteta. He said: “I spent 85 per cent off my career here and felt so respected and grateful for what I was experiencing.

“I knew I didn't have a chance to play for Spain because they were much better than me. But if I had the opportunity to play for England, I would take it tomorrow because I feel very English as well.

“I had the privilege to come to this country to play football, which in my opinion is the best in the world.

“I would love other people to have the opportunity to experience this.

“As a footballer in your career, you have the possibility to move countries and to experience different cultures, learn languages, adapt and challenge yourself."