Suat Serdar: I am incredibly proud of my achievement

The Royal Blues’ midfielder admits to being “a bit nervous” before his debut. However, once he was on the pitch, he just enjoyed the moment. “It feels great to be a national team player,” says Serdar. “It’s particularly special for me to be called up to the senior team because I have been part of the Germany setup since U16s level,” continues the S04 star, who has had “an indescribable week,” but also knows: “I can’t rest on my laurels – I have to keep working hard to improve.”

Serdar says he received a warm welcome from his Germany teammates: “They hugged me and asked how I was doing. I’m happy they made it so easy for me.”

Suat's speech at dinner

After his first appearance, which was followed by a second four days later in a 3-0 win against Estonia, he had to make a short speech at dinner in the evening. “I thanked everyone for welcoming me and said I’m happy I made my debut,” reveals Serdar.

He also emphasises that he has his club teammates to thank for helping him to reach this milestone in his career: “I have benefitted from the team’s good performances,” says the 22-year-old, who has scored three goals this season, already bettering his total from the whole of last season. “I’ve been getting more involved going forward and hitting the ball well enough that it goes in! I wanted to improve in front of goal and I’m pleased it’s working.”

From now on, however, it’s important to push on for the Blues. “We’ll see if I get another call-up next time but now my focus is on the club and I have to bring my A game,” concludes Serdar.