Arteta not ruling out England

Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta has reiterated his stance that he would think "very seriously" about playing for England if offered the chance.

Arteta has lived in England for five years, meaning he is eligible to play for the Three Lions should he acquire a British passport.

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Fabio Capello did not include the Spaniard in the squad for the Euro 2012 qualifying matches against Bulgaria and Switzerland, but Arteta has told FA chiefs he is still available.

And although his potential inclusion has caused mixed reactions among England supporters, the 28-year-old insists he would give a call-up serious consideration.

"The situation is the same as it has always been," Arteta said in the Sun.

"No one has contacted me and I spoke about my thoughts on it clearly last week.

"I said it once and I'll say it again. If that chance comes I'll consider it very seriously."

San Sebastian-born Arteta says the decision over whether to bring him into the Three Lions set-up now lies with Capello and his employers.

"I don't think it's me that has to make the decision," he added. "The FA have to think about it and propose something.

"They have to talk to me and then we can talk about it. I don't think it's me who has to say anything because it's not my job.

"But if Capello and the FA say it's all right then I'll say what I think. At the moment, there is nothing."

Arteta arrived at Goodison Park from Real Sociedad in 2005 and has made 133 league appearances for the Toffees, scoring 23 goals.