Easah Suliman Granted FIFA Approval to Switch International Allegiance to Pakistan

Easah Suliman Cleared to Represent Pakistan in SAFF Championship 2023 after FIFA’s Approval

Former England youth international Easah Suliman has been granted permission by Fifa to switch his international allegiance and represent Pakistan. Suliman, a 25-year-old center-back, was a member of the England squad that emerged victorious in the 2017 European Under-19 Championship. Having previously played for Aston Villa, he joined Portuguese club Vitoria Guimaraes in January 2020 and is currently on loan at second-division side Vilafranquens.

Fifa confirmed that Suliman is now eligible for immediate selection by Pakistan, stating, “We can confirm that the change of association request from the Pakistan Football Federation for Easah Suliman has been approved.” The center-back could potentially make his debut for Pakistan in the upcoming South Asian Football Federation (Saff) Championship, scheduled to be held in India from 21 June to 4 July.

Suliman holds the distinction of being the first player of Asian heritage to captain an England football team. He achieved this feat at the Under-16, Under-17, and Under-19 levels. He made a solitary senior appearance for Aston Villa, featuring as a substitute in the Carabao Cup. The match was against Wigan in August 2017.

News: Easah Suliman: Former England youth international switches to Pakistan

When will Suliman be eligible for selection by Pakistan?

Suliman is eligible for immediate selection by Pakistan, as confirmed by FIFA. He also could potentially make his debut for Pakistan in the upcoming South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship, scheduled to be held in India from 21 June to 4 July 2023.

What notable achievements did Suliman have while playing for England?

Suliman holds the distinction of being the first player of Asian heritage to captain an England football side at the Under-16, Under-17, and Under-19 levels. Similarly, he was a key member of the England team that won the European Under-19 Championship in 2017.