KUALA LUMPUR: Emile Smith Rowe, 23, an England and Arsenal player, says he has Malaysian roots through his maternal grandmother, who is from Rembau, Negri Sembilan.
Smith Rowe said this to Future Talents Malaysia, which had inquired about his family background.
In a post on X, Future Talents Malaysia, via its account @frfuturetalents, shared a screenshot of the player's reply.
"Dear FR Future Talent, I hope you are well. Today, I'm excited to answer your questions about my background and my family's beautiful blend of Malaysian and Jamaican roots.
"That's right. My grandmother on my mother's side was born in Malaysia, more precisely, in Rembau, Negri Sembilan, if I'm not mistaken.
"So that made me have a relationship with Malaysia. In addition, on my father's side, I am also proud of my Jamaican heritage.
"I don't know whether I can still represent Malaysia or Jamaica again because I have made an appearance for England. But I'm still proud of my background.
"Thank you for your question. Wishing you guys all the best."