FC Basel forward Breel Embolo says he has opted to play international football for Switzerland instead of Cameroon, where he was born.

The 17-year-old was in demand since impressing in the Champions League for Basel, which has advanced to play FC Porto in the last-16.

Embolo says in a statement on Basel's website that "this is not a decision against Cameroon, but one for Switzerland."

He says both national federations worked hard to recruit him.

Embolo was born in Yaounde and his family moved to Switzerland when he was aged six.

He has represented his adopted country through under-21 level, but was granted Swiss citizenship only last week.

Embolo says "I hope people will respect and accept my decision."