Amsterdam's "Ajax" forward Anwar El Ghazi says that the decision to represent the Netherlands instead of Morocco was influenced by Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo.
The 20-year-old is currently included in the preliminary "oranje" squad for the 2016 European Championship qualifying matches against Kazakhstan and the Czech Republic.
El Ghazi, who has already scored seven goals for his club this season, could represent Morocco as both of his parents come from there, but the Dutch-born forward has represented his country in youth tournaments.
"I thought about it for a long time. My parents, family, personal coach, and also Cristiano Ronaldo gave me advice. I took everything into account in my decision," the player told the official "Ajax" website.
"Ronaldo helped me make the decision. He asked about my views on the Netherlands and said that if he were in my place, he would choose this country."
"I will try to perform as well as I can. I will give everything for this country, as this is where I was born and raised."
