With news of winger Jose Izquierdo being confirmed in Colombia’s final 23 man squad for this summer’s World Cup in Russia, it means that Brighton will have three players out on display at the tournament.
With the 25-year-old making three substitute showings for his country over recent months, manager Jose Pekerman has rewarded his efforts with a place on the plane and they face group games against Japan, Poland and Senegal with hopes of reaching the knock out stage of the tournament.
Joining Izquierdo at the competition will be Australian international goalkeeper Mathew Ryan and summer signing Leon Balogun who will be representing Nigeria.
Australia face group games against France, Peru and Denmark, whilst Nigeria face Argentina, Iceland and Croatia.
With the teammates lining up in different groups, Ryan could meet Balogun in the last 16 of the competition, whilst Izquierdo could only meet one of his teammates in either the semi-final or finals itself.
This will be Ryan’s second World Cup experience following Brazil 2014.
It’s certainly a feather in Brighton’s cap and I’m not alone in wishing all three the best.
already ordered my @NGSuperEagles #6 @LeonBalogun!!
— Dean Smith (@Deano_seagulls) June 4, 2018
Good luck to all brighton players in World Cup 2018 I be watch from home and I see your all in August
— sport 7 (@Sport180) June 4, 2018
#Socceroos shirt on order for my teen
— Emma (@littleboris) June 4, 2018
????????????
— RedRob (@rob_bus93) June 4, 2018
There is actually a reasonable chance @JoseIzquierdo7 could be facing @England in the Last 16 ???? ???????? ????
— Billy Greening (@billygreening1) June 4, 2018
Three Albion players at @FIFAWorldCup How amazing is that!!! #BHAFC
— Billy Greening (@billygreening1) June 4, 2018
Please don't get injured! ???? ????
— RedRob (@rob_bus93) June 4, 2018
I thought I would never see the day, 3 of our players are going to a World Cup! Am I dreaming this?! #bhafc
— Kevin Ticehurst (@Brightonfan) June 4, 2018