JERSEY footballer Callum Osmand says his international ambitions remain unchanged despite the ruling that has left him ineligible to represent Wales, the nation he played for at youth level.
The 19-year-old, who previously featured for Wales at under-17 and under-18 level, was informed two years ago that he no longer met the revised nationality criteria, a ruling that barred several UK-born Channel Island players from continuing with nations they had already represented.
The story resurfaced in recent weeks amid discussion of the Celtic striker representing the Wales senior national team.
Osmand, however, insists his focus has not wavered, stating: “Representing Wales was always a great experience. I was always treated well and welcomed really positively by everyone. So when I found out the news a couple of years ago, it was really disappointing, it came out of nowhere.”
The forward admitted the ruling forced him to rethink his pathway, but not his aspirations: “Now, if I can only represent England, then that would be my goal. I’ll just have to keep pushing and working towards that,” he added. “Nothing has changed for me in terms of motivation. I still have the same goals club-wise, and internationally my goals are exactly the same – the route has just changed.”
Osmand believes international football remains a crucial part of his development, explaining: “Playing at that level gives you such a good insight because you face different calibres of players and different national styles of football. That can help me hugely.”
Despite uncertainty about whether the rule may be amended, Osmand is taking a grounded approach: “The guidance I’ve had from everyone is just to keep my head down, and the chances will come – whether the rule stays the same or gets overturned.”
For now, the Jersey youngster continues his progression with focus on his club career.