Ex-France youth ace Sofiane Feghouli opts for Algeria

Valencia midfielder Sofiane Feghouli says he wants to play for Algeria

Ex-France youth ace Sofiane Feghouli has pledged his future to Algeria.

The 21-year-old, whose parents hail from Algeria, had previously turned down overtures from the country's FA.

But after meeting Algeria FA football officials in May the Valencia midfielder says he is seeking to switch status under Fifa regulations.

"For me I have ended my interest in the French national team because I have decided to play for Algeria," Feghouli said.

"I have dual citizenship and I think I'll go into the national team of Algeria in a short time."

According to Fifa rules, players who have represented one country at junior level can play for another at senior level if they meet the qualifying stipulations.

Feghouli played for the France U18 and U21 sides between 2006 and 2010.

He was even named in the preliminary squad ahead of the French senior team's friendly against Uruguay in 2008.

But Algeria authorities have been keen on wooing him to play for the Desert Foxes.

Former Algeria coach Rabah Saadane and captain Yazid Mansouri unsuccessfully spoke with Feghouli about playing for Algeria before last year's World Cup.

But after meeting with the president of the Algerian FA Mohamed Raouraoua, Feghouli has agreed to complete his nationality switch.

The midfielder must first apply to Fifa for his switch to be approved before he can play for Algeria.