An England international who scored on his Three Lions debut switched his international allegiance in order to play in the Africa Cup of Nations
Steven Caulker scored on his one and only appearance for England but the former Liverpool and Tottenham defender changed his international allegiance to play in AFCON.
Caulker, who celebrates his 34th birthday today (Monday), earned his senior England debut under Roy Hodgson in 2012 in the infamous 4-2 friendly against Sweden. The centre-back turned in a Steven Gerrard free-kick from three yards before he was withdrawn in the 74th minute with the Three Lions winning 2-1.
However, it proved to be his only appearance for England as his career lost momentum, joining Cardiff City and spending three years at QPR before a bizarre short-term loan switch to Anfield.
Despite also playing for England at U19 and U21 level, and representing Team GB at the 2012 Olympic Games, he was eligible to switch his national allegiance.
Caulker was eligible to represent Sierra Leone through his grandfather William after being approached by Carlton Cole on behalf of their football association.
He was also able to represent Scotland through his grandmother Jessie but made it clear he would submit a request for change of association to FIFA in order to play for Sierra Leone, where he regularly visits.
Speaking previously to the Athletic, Caulker said: “It is a country that is close to my heart, and somewhere I’ve always been made to feel welcome. Visiting my grandfather’s village was an incredible, humbling experience.
“The football federation reached out through Carlton [Cole], whose mother is from Sierra Leone, after qualifying for their first Africa Cup of Nations in 25 years and were hoping I could add some experience to their group.
“They’re in a growing process and have aspirations to qualify for the World Cup.
“For me, this is an unbelievable opportunity and more than about just playing football. Representing Sierra Leone would be something I can be proud of when I look back over my career.
“I’ll have to earn my place in the team, but it’s an exciting prospect and something I can’t wait to be a part of.”
Caulker was cleared to play in the 2022 and 2023 AFCON but the Leone Stars failed to qualify for the 2025 tournament.
After spells in Turkey, he now plays for Stjarnan in Iceland’s top-tier.