Hoffenheim striker Peniel Mlapa has committed his allegiance to Germany.
Togo-born striker wants to represent adopted nation
Hoffenheim striker Peniel Mlapa has committed his allegiance to Germany.
The 19-year-old was born in Lome, Togo, but moved to Germany during his childhood and acquired German citizenship.
He has already represented Germany's Under 19s and is a current Under 21 international so could still play for Togo or Germany.
Mlapa rejected a senior call-up by Togo for their World Cup qualifier against Gabon last November and has now confirmed he wishes to continue his international career with his adopted nation.
"Looking at how things are, I am in favour of playing for Germany," he told
Südwestfernsehen television.
"I am playing for Germany's Under 21s and would like to continue with that."
Summer switch
Hoffenheim paid 1860 Munich a fee of £1.1million to sign Mlapa this summer, with the teenager signing a three-year-contract with the Bundesliga outfit until June 2013.
Mlapa emerged last season, scoring six goals in 23 matches for 1860 Munich in the second division, and he has scored twice in nine games so far this season for his new club.
