AFCON 2021: Former England Defender To Represent Leone Stars

By Ngome Michael

Alanyaspor center back and former England U19 International, Steven Caulker has gained eligibility to represent the national selection of Sierra Leone.

The 29-year-old was cleared to play for the Leone Stars due to paternal linage despite sharing ties with Scotland.

Caulker played for England at the Unders 19 and 21 levels as well as in the 2012 Olympics.

“Since I made my debut for the England senior team, I have not played since then. Playing for Sierra Leone became an obvious choice”, Steven Caulker said.

He made his first international appearance for the West African Nation against Morocco’s under 23 last October.

The Former Liverpool defender has played for big European clubs like Tottenham Hotspot, Southampton, QPR and Cardiff City.

Caulker’s rich experience and leadership skills will serve as added advantage for Sierra Leone that will be resurfacing in the AFCON since 1996.

Sierra Leone sealed a late ticket for next month’s AFCON against Benin and will face Champions Alegeria in a group E opener. Caulker and mates will battle it out with Ivory Coast and Equatorial Guinea.