By James Copnall BBC Sport, West Africa

Traore thinks an international career will improve his club game

Liverpool's French-born defender Djimi Traore has decided to play for Mali.

Traore told Malian state radio he had finally opted to take advantage of world governing body Fifa's rule change on international eligibility.

Traore qualifies for Mali through his father, despite having represented the French under-18 side in the past.

In a relaxation of rules that came into effect at the start of the year, players with dual nationality who have not played international football above under-21 level, can apply to Fifa to change the country they represent.

In January Frederic Kanoute and Mohammed Lamine Sissokho both gave up their French sporting nationality to turn out for the Eagles in the Nations Cup finals in Tunisia.

Traore could well have joined them - then Mali coach Henri Stambouli made a huge effort to convince him - but at the time the French-born star said no to the Eagles.

However the defender's career has stumbled at Liverpool, and Traore is hoping an international career will boost his club game.

"I think this will be good for me because I think the national team will allow me to relaunch my career, whether that's at Liverpool or somewhere else," Traore said.

Traore was one of several players brought to Liverpool by Gerard Houllier whose failure to live up to expectations contributed to his dismissal as manager last month.

The 24-year-old came to the English club from French side Lens, but has never managed to hold down a regular place in the starting line-up.

Traore's agent recently revealed his client was interested in a move to West Bromwich Albion.

Traore can play at left back or in the middle of defence, and will strengthen Mali coach Alain Moizan's options at the back.