Fast-rising Steven Alzate believes he can handle another step up if he makes his full international debut for Colombia in the early hours of Saturday morning. The Seagulls starlet, who only made his Brighton debut in August and has played in just seven Premier League games, is likely to be involved for Carlos Quieroz’s side at some point in the next few days.
Colombia face Peru in Miami early on Saturday morning before taking on Ecuador in New Jersey four days later, although Alzate – born in London to Colombian parents – thought he would be working with the Under-23 squad this month and not the full senior set-up.
The 21-year-old was called up by Arturo Reyes to work with the Under-23s, who are preparing for the Pre-Olympic Tournament in Colombia, last month, but cried off because of injury.
https://twitter.com/OfficialBHAFC/status/1192146588329742337 “I suffered a lumbar injury six months ago and I was away for five months,” he told Win Sports. “We agreed that it was better for me to stay [in Brighton] and receive treatment. This time I was called for the seniors, I did not expect it so soon, but I do not care to play with whatever [squad],I am just proud to play with Colombia.”
It is a meteoric rise for Alzate, who has started only six top-flight games, but now finds himself training with the likes of World Cup stars James Rodriguez, Yerry Mina and Jefferson Lerma.
However, the level of performances he’s put in so far mean he’s brimming with confidence right now and positive about making a impact on the international stage. “It could be soon but I’m ready,” he added. “It would be an honour to play, if you put me in I think I’m ready. Playing in the Premier League is not easy, it’s the toughest in the world and that’s why I’m ready to play with the national team, that would be an honour.”
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