We’ve got six of the best - and here’s how
IWAS chuffed this week as we had six of our squad called up for international duty, coupled with a ‘seventh’ as our recent sale Conor Washington (to QPR) was selected by Northern Ireland. It is brilliant to see great lads rewarded. Michael Smith (Northern Ireland), Gabby Zakuani (DR Congo), Kgosi Ntlhe (South Africa U23), Chris Forrester (Republic of Ireland) and our loanees Martin Samuelsen (Norway U21) and Harry Toffolo (England U20) all received the nod.
The question that is worth thinking about at moments like this is around what defines an international; what sets him apart?
Relentless
Firstly, these lads are all great professionals. They do what is expected of them constantly. They get all of the basics spot on relentlessly. They are low maintenance but high added value. They set high standards because it comes from within them.
Secondly, they strive to get better relentlessly. They don’t accept where they are at. Martin Samuelsen, for instance, cannot put away his poles and ball; he is out on that training ground fine-tuning his footwork, improving his speed with the ball, developing his balance, enhancing his disguise. Their improvement is no fluke. It is earned.
Third, they respect their team- mates and their club. This gives their country the confidence that they are not ‘me’ people. That they believe in and will serve the greater good. Internationals are the first in the club shop to sign shirts and programmes for kids.
Finally, they are intelligent and constructive communicators. If something bothers them they talk about it. If they don’t like something they say so. They don’t wait until afterwards and look for excuses. They sort out problems. They solve issues. They do what men do.
The difference between the best and the rest is only ever a little bit. It’s lots of little bits. In the end, a lot adds up to two key words; discipline and respect. They show both behaviours in abundance. To see such great attributes in so many young men is a fabulous endorsement of our great sport at a time when role models are often questioned.