Adnan Januzaj turned down the chance to commit his international future to Belgium on Monday but is still almost certain to prove beyond the reach of England coach Roy Hodgson.

Belgium manager Marc Wilmots made his first official move to win the battle for Januzaj's services when he named him in his squad for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Croatia and Wales.

But his overtures were swiftly rejected by Manchester United's teenage winger, as he asked Old Trafford officials to convey the message that he wanted more time to consider his international future.

Hero: Adnan Januzaj scored twice for Manchester United against Sunderland on Saturday

Super strike: His second goal at the Stadium of Light was a stunning volley from the corner of the box

While that may encourage England to maintain their interest, Sportsmail understands the only threat to Belgium winning him over is if Kosovo are finally granted UEFA membership.

Januzaj's family fled war-torn Kosovo as refugees and have made no secret of their wish to see him represent their home country in an officially sanctioned international.

Wilmots was philosophical about being turned down but will seek discussions with Januzaj and his family and is likely to resume his efforts to talk him round ahead of next summer's World Cup finals.

'This was the first time I have tried to include him in a squad, because I wanted to send him a clear message,' he said. 'Unfortunately, I had a very quick response from England, when Manchester United called me to say the player felt he was not ready to make a choice about his international future.

'I respect his stance. Every player has the right to make his own choice, and I will not attempt to make any sort of ultimatum to him. But I do intend meeting Adnan and his entourage to find out for myself exactly what their thoughts are. You cannot force a player to choose a country. It has to come from his heart.

'Clearly, when you have a player of his technique and ability, the door to the national team always stays open.'

Ecstatic: Patrice Evra and Tom Cleverley congratulate Januzaj after his goal

Handshake: David Moyes gives the youngster some encouraging words as he leaves the pitch