Former Celtic defender Dedryck Boyata is hell-bent on guding to Belgium’s heralded side to glory and he admits he has his former team to thank for it.
And the 30-year-old stopper insists it was the move to Glasgow that sparked his career and he was excellent in the 3-0 win over Russia.
Boyata was back in the mix at international level after his hard work under Brendan Rodgers paid and he would go to start starts three group at the 2018 World Cup.
Boyata said: “From 2010 to 2016, when I didn’t play for Belgium, there were some difficult moments for me.
“I was coming through at Manchester City, where the competition was intense. And the decision to go to Celtic, where I played many more matches, really helped me.
“And now I am not saying I should play, because things are always fluid. But since Roberto Martinez started picking me again, he has given me so much confidence.
“A very big moment for me was the 2018 World Cup. It had been a difficult season with the injury from January to April.
“But I worked very hard to get in to that squad, and was given the chance after injuries to Vincent Kompany and Thomas Vermaelen to play in the early matches, and did okay.
“My preferred position is in the middle of the three at the back, but I have played on the left and we try different positions in training.
“Every player has their own way of dealing with matches. But the confidence that the coach has given to me is playing a big part in my performances for Belgium.
“At 30 now I have matches behind me, and experience of major tournaments. I know how to deal with the pressure.
“My role against Russia was to take care of Dzyuba. We knew Russia would look to him for his power, and I was able to do what was needed to stop him.”
