QPR’s Pakistani defender Zesh Rehman has criticised the stance of the England selectors after they overlooked Cardiff City’s Championship hotshot Michael Chopra.
Chopra himself spoke out on the issue, after Preston’s Dave Nugent was called up for the Euro 2008 double header against Andorra and Israel. Nugent has scored less goals than Chopra this season but was selected ahead of the Geordie.
Chopra left hometown club Newcastle United in the summer in search of regular first team action. He is ambitious and is desperate to play in the Premiership and for England but former-Fulman defender Zesh Rehman is not convinced that Chopra will make it, given that he also qualifies for India through his Indian father:
‘Chopra has been on top form with Championship side Cardiff City and currently is the top goal scorer in the league. But he was not even considered for England’s games against Israel and Andorra,’ said Rehman.
‘So he needs to maybe look at his decision and go play for India instead of hanging on to the dream of playing for England.’
Rehman chose to represent Pakistan despite some interest from the England set-up and does not regret his decision:
‘I’m pleased with my decision . If you are not getting opportunities (to play for England) when you are playing in the Premiership, then Asian players are always going to be overlooked.
Chopra has already rejected the admvanced of India, and seems determined to fight it out with the likes of Nugent, Defoe, Rooney and Michael Owen for a much coveted England place.
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