American-born Chivas Guadalaraja forward Jesus Padilla has admitted that he hopes to earn international playing time for Mexico, and not the United States.

The youngster was recently the subject of controversy at the club, who only field Mexican players.

Sports Illustrated revealed that Padilla was born in San Jose, but he is still generally being accepted as a "domestic" player - a status which naturally would change instantly were he ever to suit up for the U.S.

"They would kill me," he told the Chicago Tribune of the likely fan reaction at Chivas.

"I have to work hard (to earn a Mexico call-up)," added Padilla. "Hopefully, I will get chance sooner or later."

As for the revelation that initially caused quite a stir, "El Gringo" - as he is known below the border - breathed quite a sigh of relief when the fuss died down.

"I was nervous," admitted Padilla. "Luckily, the organization stood by me and told me to be calm."

"The fans were polled about it and a high percentage of them approved of me playing for Chivas - everything has blown over since then."

Official Chivas & Mexico Jerseys!