CRUEL CAP KO HURTS SONS STAR
DEVASTATED Dumbarton star Dimitris Froxylias has spoken of his heartache after injury wrecked his chance of making a dream debut for Cyprus.
The 24-year-old received his first senior call-up for the friendlies against Georgia and Armenia.
But Froxylias picked up a hamstring injury in training last week that ruled him out of Dumbarton’s weekend win at Brechin City and the two games for Cyprus.
The midfielder, who signed a contract extension last week to stay at Dumbarton until the end of the season, has still joined up with his national squad.
And he is hoping to play a part in their Euro 2020 qualifying campaign.
Cyprus, who are managed by Israeli Ran Ben Shimon, have never qualified for a major finals but Froxylias insists they are improving.
He told Record Sport: “I was told three weeks ago I was in the national team and it was a proud moment.
“But I am so disappointed because I picked up a hamstring injury in training.
“I still joined up with the squad but they are due to fly to Georgia on Wednesday and I will remain in Cyprus for treatment.
“It has been frustrating but I’m sure I will receive another call-up.
“The manager said I can play in the national team because he needs someone who can hold the ball.
“Despite being injured he wanted me to come along, meet the players and chat about his ideas.
“The doctor also wanted to assess my injury.
“I have played for the Under-21s and watched the national team as a fan so it’s exciting to be called up.
“The standard is definitely improving. The manager wanted to see me with his own eyes but he thinks I have quality. He watched footage of Dumbarton’s games and I got the call.
“I’ve enjoyed just being in and around the team. We have players at a good level such as Konstantinos Laifis of Standard Liege and Pieros Sotiriou in Copenhagen.
“Cypriot football is improving and it would be great to play a part in Euro 2020. I certainly believe.”
After an unsuccessful trial at Dunfermline, Froxylias landed a deal at Dumbarton and hopes the Sons will benefit in the future from his international adventures.
He said: “The call-up is good for me but also Dumbarton as it boosts their profile and they might receive money from the Cypriot Federation.”