Impressing in his first few outings for Southampton following his transfer this summer, Armel Bella-Kotchap was called up to the Germany national team for the first time.
He has yet to pick up his first cap, though, and this felt like an introductory session for the 20-year-old, with Hansi Flick just wanting to get a closer look at him.
With Germany set to play England on Monday, he could pick up his first cap in the process, even if that’s not guaranteed.
Ahead of the fixture, the Southampton player sat down with the German national team’s website to have a chat of his first few months in England and how he has settled.
Asked about the physicality aspect, he said: “I also felt very comfortable in the Bundesliga, but in the Premier League it’s even more physical. One of my strengths is in duels, but I’m not a finished player, I’m still young, I can still learn and improve a lot in all areas. That’s why it’s good for me to be here with the national team. I can learn a lot from here, I’m very willing to learn.”
The Southampton defender explains he was never expecting the call, and confirmed that he didn’t even have Flick’s number saved on his phone.
Getting a lot of praise on these shores for the Saints, Bella-Kotchap also admitted he isn’t one to read everything that’s said about him.
He added: “I’m here to play football. I want to do my best on the pitch so that I can continue to get opportunities like this one with the national team. I don’t want it to stay with one call-up. I will fight for this goal and also give everything in the club.”
Since arriving at Southampton, Bella-Kotchap has made six appearances under Ralph Hasenhüttl, and has picked up one assist.
