West Ham United's Crysencio Summerville has expressed his surprise at receiving a call-up to the Netherlands squad for the upcoming World Cup Finals.
The winger previously made 37 appearances for the Dutch at youth level, but is in line to make his senior debut at the World Cup after being included in the squad by manager Ronald Koeman.The 24-year-old enjoyed a productive season at West Ham despite the club being relegated from the Premier League; Summerville scored five goals and registered five assists in all competitions.
And while injury ruled him out of the Netherlands' most recent friendlies back in March, Koeman has retained his faith in the winger - much to Summerville's shock.
"So much emotion was unleashed," he told ESPN Netherlands when asked for his reaction to being selected for the World Cup squad.
"Of course the coach has to see you, to see if you fit into the group in terms of playing style, but also how you fit in with the group. So it was quite a surprise.
"I think they [Koeman and his staff] have seen a number of matches, so in terms of quality they know what I can do. I also know a lot of guys from my youth, so that's all good.
"I am fired up and I can't wait to get started. From the first whistle, it's full steam ahead for me. If the coach puts me in the starting line-up, I'll be there."
Summerville joined West Ham from Leeds in August 20924 in a £25million deal. Although his first season in east London was effectively a write-off due to injury, he fulfilled the club's faith by enjoying a far better second term.
While Summerville is likely to remain a West Ham player when the Finals take place in the US, he is expected to move on before the beginning of next season. The Hammers are hoping to secure a fee considerably higher than that they paid for the winger two years ago.
* Something to say about this story? Please visit the KUMB Forum to leave a comment.
