Zaha joined Ivory Coast after England rejection

The Crystal Palace winger was born in Abidjan, and ultimately committed his international career to the Ivory Coast back in 2016. However, Zaha told 'CNN Sport' in an interview that it was due to rejection by England.

The 24-year-old said: ''It was just lke I was rejected from the England side. I didn't get picked or even get a look in for four years. Four years in football is a long time so it's like there's no regret at all.''

''No one even thought about me at all. And Ivory Coast, even though I told them no, they still had the belief in me and still wanted me because they knew what I could do for the team.'' 

He noted: ''Obviously we may not be in the World Cup but it's just a learning curve. From there, what we need to do is just get better and hopefully try and get into the next one.''

Zaha added: ''As for me not playing for England, I've got no regret at all. I'm happy with the decision I made.''