Adnan Januzaj (Picture: AP)

Adnan Januzaj has turned down the chance to play for Kosovo – leaving the door open for the Manchester United star to declare for England.

The Brussels-born 19-year-old, who could also elect to play for Belgium and Albania, was invited by the Kosovo Football Federation to join up with their squad for next month’s friendly against Haiti.

However, sources close to the youngster have told the Telegraph he will not accept the offer to play in what will be Kosovo’s first international match since since declaring itself an independent state in 2008.

Januzaj’s Kosovar-Albanian father, Abedin, would be keen for his son to declare for Kosovo were it not for the fact that they are not recognised by Fifa and, therefore, cannot play competitive fixtures.




And the family are understood to be warming to the idea that Kosovo’s cause would be better highlighted if Adan were wearing the Three Lions shirt.

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Abedin has been critical of Belgium and Albania’s advances for Adnan but on speculation the midfielder could declare for England said: ‘I know [England boss] Roy Hodgson said he would consider having Adnan in the English squad in the future.

‘But, as I said for Albania and Belgium, it is not something we are considering right now. Our full potential will be focused in doing well with Manchester United.’

Unless he declares for another country in the meantime, Januzaj will become eligible for play for England on residency grounds in 2017.

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