Albion newcomer Bong reveals Cameroon rift

Gaetan Bong has vowed to give his undivided attention to Albion after revealing he is still in dispute with Cameroon.

The Seagulls' new left-back represented his country in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa but has not played for them since a friendly against Paraguay more than a year ago when he was at Greek giants Olympiakos.

Bong, 27, told The Argus: "I made the choice when I was in Greece. Things were complicated with the national team and I am the kind of player that likes respect.

"When you don't see one or two things I prefer to say 'Okay, I'll keep my distance'.

"When it is all fixed if they call me I will go to help my country because I love my country. But the football in Africa is not simple. We need to do a lot of things to change the mentality and how African football is.

"It was before the World Cup (2014 in Brazil) and it's not because they didn't call me. After the World Cup I spoke with the manager but some things need to stay private. I didn't go with the national team for one or two reasons and if I didn't see the difference I prefer to give the best for my club and stay 100 per cent.

"When you play you travel and sometimes you are tired. You need to feel good to be at your best."

Bong was born in Cameroon but has spent most of his playing career in France with Metz, Tours (loan) and Valenciennes. His first international appearance was for the French under-21s.

"I played one game and just after this game I spoke with the manager, Paul Le Guen of Cameroon," he said.

"After that I made the choice to play for Cameroon. I'm French but my father gave me this love for my country.

"I started to go back to Cameroon when I was older and when I went back I felt again for Cameroon."

Bong was linked with Arsenal and Newcastle in 2013 while playing for Valenciennes.

His first taste of English football was on a short-term contract with relegated Wigan towards the end of last season, including the 2-1 defeat for Chris Hughton's Albion at the DW Stadium in April.

Bong said: "I think I arrived a little bit late, because when I arrived we'd lost a lot of points beforehand. We couldn't change anything.

"Against Brighton we won but it was too late for us. But Brighton changed their position before. That is why they are in the Championship.

"I spoke to the manager and people at the club and I feel their ambition. If you want to stay in this division or go higher you need ambition, without that you cannot do anything."

The 6ft 2ins Bong, awarded a two-year contract, chose Albion despite offers from a Championship rival and from abroad, including an option to return to France.

"After playing a couple of months for Wigan I appreciate English football," he said. "I like it when you are always giving, always fighting, needing to be at 100 per cent.

"That's why I chose to stay in England. That was my first experience here. I gave my best and I will do the same here.

"I was in a big club in Greece and I chose to come to England because I wanted something different and I've found something here.

"I love it here. I like the people, I like the football. Everyone pushes you to give your best to progress and I like that.

"I spoke with the manager and I felt this. They wanted me to join their adventure and for that reason I trusted to sign here.

"It wasn't for the money, it wasn't for the level. I saw something, the ambition and what I can give."

Ten Things About Gaetan Bong

Began in the youth ranks at French side Metz, making pro debut in December 2005 and 16 first team appearances in total.

Started his career as a left-sided midfielder.

Joined Tours FC on loan in the 2008/09 season, playing 36 games in all competitions.

Left Metz in 2009 to join then Ligue 1 side Valenciennes, where he made 109 appearances and scored two goals.

Made his only appearance for France Under-21s in August 2009 as a substitute against Poland.

Earned first of 13 Cameroon caps in June 2010 friendly against Portugal. Went on to feature in Cameroon’s 2010 World Cup squad, playing in their final group stage game against Netherlands.

After four years at Valenciennes from 2009-2013 moved to Greek Superleague Champions Olympiakos.

Played 29 times for Olympiakos, including Champions League victories against Anderlecht and Benfica.

Signed by Malky Mackay for Wigan in February on a contract for the rest of the season.

Returns to France today with Albion for their training camp in the French Alps at Tignes. "I know Tignes when I was in the national team and League One in France," he said. "It's very good for pre-season."