Yan Dhanda is "desperate" to play for India - but the Heart of Midlothian playmaker is still unable to due to rules by the Indian government.

The 25-year-old, who was born in the West Midlands, qualifies for India through his gran on his dad's side. 

The issue, however, surrounds dual citizenship.

India are one of few nations that don't allow players to play for the national team if they hold dual citizenship.

A number of players are in the same boat. A frustration for both Dhanda and manager Manolo Márquez.

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“I spoke to the manager about a month ago," the Hearts star said. "He is desperate for me to play. But at the moment we are still waiting on the government to change the rules.

“I think they are one of the only countries that aren’t allowing it right now. I think the national team could do with a few of us going over to play. We want to play and we will only help and contribute with trying to get to a World Cup.

“I’m desperate to play there as well but at the moment it’s completely out of my control.”

Dhanda spoke about the issue during the summer following his move to Tynecastle Park from Ross County. The midfielder remains in limbo.

“The manager and FA want me to play but at the moment the government aren’t budging. The seem pretty stubborn so we will just have to wait.

“I’ve been waiting for a few months but there’s been no progress.”