Friday 30 May 2008 17:06, UK
Brazilian-born Mehmet Aurelio became the first naturalised player to feature for Turkey in August 2006.
Brazilian-born Mehmet Aurelio became the first naturalised player to feature for Turkey when he made his debut against Luxembourg in August 2006. The midfielder started his career in the country of his birth with Flamengo, where he made over 100 appearances, before joining Olario. He moved to Turkey with Trabzonspor in June 2001 and on to Fenerbahce in June 2003, where he has become a key member of the squad. During his time in Turkey he has won a number of honours, including the three league titles and the Turkish Super Cup with Fenerbahce and the Turkish FA Cup with Trabzonspor. Aurelio was a regular for Fatih Terim's side during their qualification campaign, starting 11 of the 12 games. He is expected to be on of the first names on the team-sheet for the Turkey coach during this summer's tournament.
