Michael Kayode says he learned about his first senior Italy call-up after Brentford’s 3-0 win over Chelsea on Friday and insists he never considered leaving the English club this summer, while Nigeria approached him about a senior call-up.

Kayode is among the ten potential debutants called up by Roberto Mancini for the upcoming Nations League games against Belgium, France and Turkey, which the Azzurri will meet home and away during the break.

“I didn’t know about the Italy call-up before the game [against Chelsea ] ; I found out at the final whistle, on my phone. It was an incredible emotion, especially after such a big win,” he said at a press conference attended by Football Italia on Tuesday.

“Many full-backs inspire me, but the main one is [Paolo] Maldini. I love defending, and I believe he is the exception in this sport worldwide.”

The Brentford defender has received his first senior Italy call-up, but he already left his mark with the Azzurri at the youth level, scoring the winner in the Euro U19 Final against Portugal and helping Italy win the trophy for the first time.

“It was a very easy decision. I went through all the youth teams here. Nigeria approached me, but I never thought about changing national teams,” he said.

“I think Italy have always been a great national team, and playing here is an honour.”

A former Fiorentina defender, Kayode has made 63 appearances with Brentford, scoring two goals and providing three assists.