Lyon defender Jeremy Morel commits to Madagascar
The former Marseille left-back says he hopes to play at next year’s Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.
France-born Lyon defender Jeremy Morel has announced that he will represent Madagascar at next year’s Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.
The 34-year-old, whose father is Malagasy, has not featured for France in any friendly or competitive game, making him eligible to play for the Indian Ocean islanders.
Earlier this month, Madagascar, who are now 100th in the FIFA rankings, qualified for their first ever Africa Cup of Nations finals.
Jeremy Morel dont le papa est né à Madagascar jouera pour les Baréa à la CAN 2019. pic.twitter.com/Ue98flkC42
— Actu Foot (@ActuFoot_) October 26, 2018
Morel: "You don't deny your family background"
The Lyon left-back, who has spent his whole career in France, previously played for Olympique Marseille and Lorient.
"I confirm that I will proudly take part in the Afcon 2019 under the colours of Madagascar," Morel tweeted.
Je confirme que je participerai avec fierté à la CAN 2019 sous les couleurs de Madagascar. Ça fera sourire ou grincer des dents mais qu'importe, on ne renie pas ses origines familiales quand elles vous appellent et je place mon affection là où je le veux ✊
— Jérémy Morel (@jmorel15) October 26, 2018
"It will make you smile or cringe, but no matter, you do not deny your family background when they call you and I place my affection where I want it."
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Morel's decision to represent Madagascar is the result of a plan by the national team coach, Nicolas Dupuis, to try and recruit players of Malagasy decent to strengthen his squad.
Dupuis is also keeping a close eye on two other France-based players, Ludovic Ajorque and Zacharie Boucher.