The issue of Germany-trained players who decide to represent other nations has resurfaced after Germany youth international Ibrahim Maza recently declared his choice to play for Algeria's national team.

The 19-year-old forward from Bayer Leverkusen is the newest player to opt out of representing Germany despite being developed there at youth and senior levels, with the German Football Association (DFB) officials repeatedly calling for financial reimbursement for developing such players.

Other recent examples include Can Uzun, born in Bavaria, who selected to play for Turkeyat the senior level last year.

Tah, eligible for the Ivory Coast through his father, said he made an early decision to remain with Germany, a choice he felt very confident about.

"For each individual, it is a personal choice, and everyone views it differently. For me, it is a decision of the heart," Tah said during a press conference before Germany's final two World Cup qualifying matches.

"It was a quick decision. When I was 17 (and approached by the Ivory Coast), I immediately declined. I was progressing through all the German youth national teams and wanted to represent Germany. It was a personal decision and one from the heart."

The 29-year-old Tah, who has 41 international appearances, is expected to add two more soon as Germany travels to Luxembourg on Friday before hosting Slovakia in their last World Cup qualifiers, needing two consecutive victories to guarantee their place in next year's tournament.

Germany leads Group A, just ahead of second-placed Slovakia on goal difference. Northern Ireland is third with six points, and Luxembourg is last without any points. The group winner qualifies directly for the World Cup, while the runner-up will enter a playoff in March.

When asked if he had any doubts Germany would top their group, Tah responded: "No, that's the short answer."