Image Credits: Imago Images
Former Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah achieved a significant career milestone on Sunday night, making his senior England debut in the Three Lions’ 2-0 victory over Albania in Tirana.
The 22-year-old center-back, who departed Anfield for Bayer Leverkusen in a £35 million deal last July, was deployed at right-back by manager Thomas Tuchel in the World Cup qualifier.
Quansah’s involvement with the England senior setup has been a story of patience and perseverance.
Despite being called up to five different England squads under Gareth Southgate, Lee Carsley, and Tuchel, injuries delayed his debut.
A knee problem in October forced him to withdraw from England’s qualifier against Latvia, with the Leverkusen defender missing the match as a precautionary measure despite impressing for his club.
But he has now earned his legacy cap from Harry Kane, and speaking after his debut the Leverkusen defender said:
“First and foremost, this one of the greatest days of my life to be fair,” the 22-year-old began.
“Being part of the group, obviously perfect in qualifying… means a lot to me.”
“I want thank the coaching staff for giving me the opportunity and helping out, then to you guys [players] as well.”
“Seeing some of the lads who I have won tournaments and seeing us come through the age groups and some of the senior, more experienced players as well.”
“It’s a massive honour and I’m so grateful… thank you”.
Since his summer switch from Liverpool, Quansah has established himself as a key figure in Leverkusen’s defense, making 13 appearances across all competitions and scoring once.
The former Reds academy graduate, who won the Premier League with Liverpool last season and lifted the U21 European Championship in June, received his legacy cap from captain Harry Kane after the match.
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