The Kosovo Football Federation has been in talks with Adnan Januzaj about the Manchester United winger representing the nation in their first ever official international match next month.
Brussels-born Januzaj is said to be wanted by a host of countries, including Belgium, Albania, Turkey, Serbia and England, but Kosovo is where the majority of his family are from.
The 19-year-old playing in Kosovo's landmark game against Haiti in Mitrovica on March 5 would not affect his availability for the aforementioned nations, as Kosovo is not recognised by the United Nations and therefore cannot be admitted to FIFA.
However, world football's governing body has been brokering talks between Kosovo and Serbia, who are the main opponents to the Republic of Kosovo, to enable them to play against full FIFA members who do recognise their independence.
Eroll Salihu, secretary general of the Football Federation of Kosovo, has confirmed that Januzaj will be called up to play Haiti.
"We are in discussions with Adnan's family and to have a player of his amazing talent play in our very first match would be hugely symbolic," Salihu told the Daily Star.
"We feel he owes it to his people to take some part in the match, even if it is for just 15 minutes. I stress this is a symbolic gesture. By playing in this match we are not thinking he is making any commitment to us.
"It is a friendly and would not have an affect on him being able to play for another country in the future. It is not our purpose to do that, but we hope he can be with us on a very special and memorable occasion."
Although FIFA has allowed this landmark fixture to take place, the use of Kosovan emblems and the singing of their national anthem will not be permitted.
Robert Summerscales
