Celtic star Matt O’Riley got his first proper call-up for the Denmark senior side during the international break.
The in-form Hoops midfielder was called up by Denmark boss Kasper Hjulmand after his namesake Kasper Dolberg pulled out of the action.
O’Riley was an unused sub in his country’s almost very embarrassing 2-1 win away to San Marino. It was a late call-up that the midfielder hadn’t expected. Something that was shown by him actually being on holiday at the time.
“It was under quite random circumstances,” he said at his Friday press conference. “I wasn’t expecting it by any means.
“I was just sat on a balcony in Spain and got a call and that was it. Obviously, a proud moment for me and my family too, naturally.
“They made the journey to the game — my mum, dad and girlfriend. So it was a good effort from them to come to San Marino even though I didn’t play. It shows the support system I’ve got.
“It makes it that much more special when you get called up to have those kind of people around you.” (Celtic YouTube)
As someone who has bumped into O’Riley’s parents at more than one Celtic away match, I can confirm that they are incredibly supportive of their son’s career.
Their quick decision to travel to San Marino for an unglamorous qualifier, knowing O’Riley probably wouldn’t feature, was an impressive decision. Although you probably wouldn’t expect anything else.
O’Riley now has his foot in the door at senior international level and will hope more caps are forthcoming. The Danes aren’t exactly flying at the moment but could still qualify for Euro 2024 in neighbouring Germany.
It would be great to see O’Riley, and as many other Celtic stars as possible, involved in that.
In other news, Ange Postecoglou asked about Pep Guardiola rumour
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