Brentford defender Daniel O’Shaughnessy said every international call-up was exciting and even someone who has played dozens of times for their country still had to prove themselves every time.
The young central defender has been called up to the Finland Under-21 squad for two forthcoming friendlies.
The 20-year-old has been named in the squad for matches against Kazakhstan on Wednesday, March 25, and Luxembourg on Sunday, March 29.
Daniel, who joined The Bees this summer on a two-year contract after a successful trial, has been a regular in the Finland Under-21 squad over the past year.
He has made five appearances and scored in their last match, a win over San Marino.
He also played in a recent Under-20 friendly against Hungary that included players eligible for the 2017 European Under-21 Championships.
“It is still exciting to get a call-up,” said Daniel, speaking to Bees Player.
“It is nice to represent your country.
“Every match is different and you have to prove yourself every time.
“The last match wasn’t the best for the team or for me, we lost and I was sent off.
“I have a history with Finland and have played close to 50 times.
“The coach knows me and knows what I can do but still need to prove myself.”
Qualifying for the next tournament will begin later this year.
Daniel said Finland would be doing everything they could to qualify.
He added he enjoyed playing international games as they were high quality matches.
“Qualification starts in the summer,” said Daniel.
“We always aim to qualify but for a small country like Finland it doesn’t happen that often.
“We will be trying though.
“I have a lot of friends and have been playing with them from a young age.
“It is good to see them.
“International games have extra quality and it is nice to play in them.”
Daniel joined The Bees after spending three years with French side FC Metz.
He has mainly played for Brentford’s Development Squad this season, making 20 appearances and scoring once.
The Bees had have a good second half to the Under-21 Professional Development League season and have won six and drawn two of their last nine games.
Daniel said he is pleased with his season and now needs to take the next step.
“The level has been good so I have been happy,” said the defender.
“I have to take the next step and get close to the First Team.
“Maybe I need a loan move to get more First Team experience.
“The standard in the league itself can vary depending on who you play and how strong they are.
“It is a good standard though.
“We have a couple of games left but hopefully we can organise some friendlies and I can make a mark that way.”
Brentford’s Development Squad play Leeds United tonight, Monday March 23, and Daniel should be involved.
“I will join up on Tuesday,” he said.
“It is always nice to play at stadiums so playing at Elland Road will be good.
“It is a different feeling.”
A full video interview with Daniel O’Shaughnessy is available here for Bees Player subscribers.