Joel Lynch admits his call-up to the Wales squad for the friendly against Mexico came as massive shock to him.
Forest defender relishing international chance
Joel Lynch admits his call-up to the Wales squad for the friendly against Mexico came as massive shock to him.
The Nottingham Forest defender has been drafted into Chris Coleman's squad for the first time for the game in New Jersey next week.
Lynch, who qualifies to play for Wales through his father, admits he was surprised to be called up by Wales and he is relishing the chance to play international football.
"I am delighted to get the call-up to play for Wales, but I have to admit it was a bit unexpected," Lynch told
skysports.com.
"It came as quite a shock and I was a bit shook up by it.
"I got a call from somebody at the Welsh FA to say they wanted to call me up for the game with Mexico and then it was a case of getting my birth certificate sorted out.
"Chris Coleman spoke to my agent and he let me know that he wanted me in the squad.
"I have been reading up a lot on the game and about Mexico and it will be a very tough game.
"To be involved with Wales will be unbelievable as international football is the highest level you can play at.
"I am looking forward to the trip and meeting up with my new team-mates.
"It will help that my Forest team-mate Chris Gunter will be there and I also know Aaron Ramsey from his spell on loan at Forest and I will be going out to give my best if I am called upon."
Proud
Lynch admits his call-up has left his father very proud having been born in Wales and having a lot of family still in Wales.
"My dad was born in Barry and he grew up there so he is absolutely delighted about my call-up," he said.
"He still has a lot of family in Wales so it is a very proud day for me and my family."
