If Christian Kabasele makes the Belgium squad and ends up going to Russia for the 2018 World Cup, he can give Marco Silva a big hug to thank him.
Bought by Watford for the 2016-17 season, the Belgian centre-back was barely used by Walter Mazzarri, starting just seven league games.
Ever since the arrival of the Portuguese manager at Vicarage Road, however, his fortune has changed dramatically, starting 13 of a possible 15 games, and quickly winning over Hornets fans around the country.
The 26-year-old was recently interviewed by RTBF in his home country, who travelled to Watford to sit down and chat with him about what has changed.
To summarise, not a lot.
He said: “I start every game the same, whether it is Manchester United, Brighton or Newcastle. I always have the same focus and the same desire to have a great game and help the team win.
“Last year, I didn’t have the same success, but I’m a hard worker and I knew I would get rewarded at one point. Now, here I am.”
The most impressive aspect of all this remains the fact the Watford centre-back has only played at centre-back for a few years.
He explained: “I was a mediocre forward in the Belgian second division (for KAS Eupen) and I became an international centre-back who plays in the Premier League. I’ve already achieved my dream.”
An Arsenal fan before moving to Watford, Kabasele now admits he finds it hard to support the Gunners anymore, having played against them with the Hornets.
At least now Watford fans know he won’t “accidentally” score an own goal against them on March 10th at the Emirates.
