Izquierdo Called Up For Australia Friendly

Brighton & Hove Albion winger Jose Izquierdo has been included in Colombia’s squad for an upcoming friendly against Australia at Craven Cottage on Tuesday 27th March.

The 25-year-old has been rewarded for his impressive form for the Seagulls this season, and will get the chance to claim for third cap for his country, after making two substitute appearances in 2017.

The match will also see Izquierdo come up against Albion goalkeeper Mathew Ryan, who has already collected 41 caps for his country and will feature for the Socceroos at this summer’s World Cup in Russia.

Colombia have also qualified for the major tournament, and if Izquierdo is given his chance to impress at Fulham’s Craven Cottage later this month, the winger could also find himself on his way to the World Cup.

Albion manager Chris Hughton was full of praise for the Colombian after Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup defeat to Manchester United, and believes the former Club Brugge man has adapted well to the English game.

He said, “The credit must go to him, he’s worked incredibly hard to improve his level of performance and he’s looked a real threat for us.

“He’s been a good team player. We’re not the level of team in this division which can afford to have wide players that are only offensive players.

“Firstly, they have to be team players and he’s not shy of working both ways. He gives us a real pacey threat going forwards and he would only be in their squad because of the form he’s in here.”