Wycombe Wanderers defender Chris Forino has revealed why decided to pledge his international allegiances to Saint Lucia.
The 22-year-old centre back was eligible to represent both England and Italy but opted to choose the Caribbean Island in December last year.
His decision to play for the country, which is managed by former Birmingham City, Sunderland, Coventry City and Southampton forward, Stern John, came at the conclusion of a meeting with delegates from the nation’s football association.
22-year-old 6’3” Wycombe Wanderers defender, Chris Forino, has committed his international future to the Saint Lucia Men’s National Team. He met recently with head coach Stern John and assistant coach Francis Lastic. Saint Lucia return to Concacaf Nations League action in 2023.🇱🇨 pic.twitter.com/DC1TnagDi0
— Terry Finisterre (@terryfinisterre) December 13, 2022
Speaking after Wanderers’ 1-1 draw against Charlton on March 25, Forino explained: “I had a chat with my sister and other members of my family about it and in a way, it was a bit of a no-brainer.
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“It’s always an honour to be called up to your country, whatever country it is at any level.
“And for me, I felt it was the right decision for my career in the way I see my career going.
“I feel as if England or Italy are unrealistic for me, so I’m lucky to be playing for Saint Lucia.
“It also takes you to a wonderful part of the world.”
Chats about playing for a nation began at the start of the current season, as there were rumours that Forino, along with Charlton defender Terell Thomas, could play for the country.
🇱🇨 New legionnaire!
— Football Legionnaires (@FutLegionnaires) December 13, 2022
Chris Forino of Wycombe Wanderers has declared his intention to play for Saint Lucia. Great addition for the National Team slowly building for the next round of Nations League in March https://t.co/jpmpr3NsBB
READ MORE: 'We never say die' - Chris Forino on Wycombe's attitude following Charlton draw
However, the Chairboys centre back is yet to make his international bow, whilst Thomas has played three times for Saint Lucia.
Forino added: “Two of the country's representatives came over to talk to myself and Terell Thomas back in August.
“Coincidentally, that was also against Charlton when we played them at Adams Park.
Immensely proud of my little brother @Chrisforino2 who will be playing for our beloved island’s National Team 🇱🇨 @SaintLuciaFA https://t.co/0yey8tVAdt
— Keah (@Keah_lilly) December 15, 2022
“They got everything sorted out in terms of my paperwork.
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“But at this moment, I am focusing on helping Wycombe domestically.
“I’m playing games at the moment for the club and we’ll see what happens.”
Forino has played 27 times this season, scoring four times.
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