Inaki Williams chooses Ghana over Spain

Spain under-21 striker Inaki Williams has pledged his international future to the Black Stars, Goal can reveal.

The 21-year-old, with seven La Liga goals this season, grabbed global attention in November after netting five times in three matches within a span of eight days.

Spain national team coach Vicente del Bosque had hinted that the frontman could be considered for the 2016 European Championship, but Williams, who previously stated in an interview that he “feels Spanish”, now appears to have quashed any such hopes.

“I can tell you that Inaki has decided to play for Ghana,” a source close to the player told Goal.

“Although born in Basque, Inaki feels more Ghanaian and has informed the family of his intentions.

“He has already informed Ghanaian officials about his plans after several talks and efforts are underway to complete a nationality switch.

“Inaki is grateful for the love shown him by Spain. But he thinks playing for the land of his forefathers will be the best for his career. He’s already informed the Spanish federation about his ambitions, and they wished him luck.”

Born to a Ghanaian father and a Liberian mother in Spain, Williams made his first appearance for his country of birth in an under-21 fixture against Norway in March 2015.

Ghana Football Association boss Kwesi Nyantakyi, vice president George Afriyie and Black Stars coach Avram Grant had all previously confirmed the country’s interest in the youngster.

He joins the likes of Kevin-Prince Boateng, Quincy Owusu-Abeyie and Emmanuel Frimpong to have opted for an international future with Ghana ahead of European countries.