Noel Buck has said the chance to play alongside the likes of Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo is why he’s committed his international future to England.
The New England Revolution midfielder has been involved with the U.S. at the youth level, but accepted a call-up from England’s U-19 side last fall and has made eight appearances for the Young Lions.
Buck is now provisionally cap-tied to England, meaning he would now need to file a one-time change of association to play for another country.
In an interview with The Athletic, Buck said that England made a strong push for him and that he’s happy with where he is for the time being.
“I’m in a good spot with England now, we’ll see what the future holds,” he said.
Buck was born and raised in the U.S. but is eligible for England and Wales through his father. The 19-year-old said that the quality of players at England’s disposal is one of the main reasons he’s cast his lot with the Three Lions for now.
“Each time I go with England, I learn a couple of new things, meet new people and get better experiences,” Buck said. “They’re all fantastic players — especially Kobbie. The fact he’s playing right now for England (seniors) is unreal to think about.
“It’s why I wanted to play for England: you get to play with these types of players and I’ll include (Leeds United’s) Archie Gray in that, fantastic player, and Jack Hinshelwood at Brighton. Quality.
“What Kobbie’s success does is also highlight the pathway and how quickly things can change.”
Mainoo, 18, has enjoyed a breakthrough season with Manchester United that has seen him go from starting alongside Buck with England’s U-19s to making his senior debut last month.
Buck isn’t shy about his desire to one day play in the same league as Mainoo, but added that his focus for now is on the Revs.
“I’ve always wanted to go and play in England,” Buck said. “That’s always been a dream — whether it’s in the Premier League or the Championship — but at the moment I’m focused on my football here.”
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