Celtic midfielder Olivier Ntcham looks set to make a big decision for his footballing career, by switching his international allegiance to Cameroon.
The Frenchman qualifies to play for the African nation through his parents who were both born in the country. Until this point Ntcham has played his international football for the French youth setup but now he looks set to perform a big switch after being put on a standby list by Cameroon. (STV)
If Ntcham does follow through on his early intention then the switch could mean a few things. First of all, he will likely spend a lot less time relaxing during international breaks. Given the 23-year-old’s pedigree, you would expect him to at least be called up for his new country of choice – with big African qualifiers soon on the horizon.
His international flights will be a little longer but still far less than the ones Tom Rogic and Daniel Arzani often have to embark on. He will return back to Scotland perhaps a little bit more fatigued, although you could also argue that the game time will do him good.
Cameroon move could inspire Ntcham again
Celtic fans will just be hoping that the switch can reignite the fire in the midfielder’s belly. He’s struggled for playing time in recent weeks, albeit through some injuries, but many will want to see him push for a starting spot again.
If Ntcham has the added motivator of international football behind him then he may feel more obliged to do his utmost to get into his national manager’s plans. Of course it could always work the other way and convince him that a move away from Celtic is best for his prospects.
It’s a big call that the former Manchester City man has made. Turning your back on the country of your birth can never be easy. Especially after you’ve played games for them at youth level.
But Ntcham clearly feels that playing for Cameroon gives him something extra in his career. If that benefits Celtic then all the better.
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