Exclusive:Kevin Phillips claims Sunderland star set for 'biggest honour' after major career milestone
Sunderland striker Wilson Isidor made his international debut for Haiti over the weekend.
Sunderland legend Kevin Phillips has claimed that it would be the “biggest honour” for current Black Cats star Wilson Isidor to compete at this summer’s World Cup with Haiti.
The striker recently switched international allegiance to link up with the Grenadiers, and made his debut for his country in a 1-0 friendly defeat against Tunisia over the weekend.
It is broadly expected that he will now become a prominent part of head coach Sébastien Migné’s plans, and according to Phillips, the opportunity to test himself at the pinnacle of the professional game will represent a career highlight for the 25-year-old.
What has Kevin Phillips said about Sunderland striker Wilson Isidor?
Speaking exclusively to The Echo, courtesy of BestBettingSites, the pundit said: “I think for any player to go to a World Cup, no matter what country you play for, is the biggest honour that you could have as a professional footballer - representing your country in the biggest tournament in the world on the biggest stage.
“So, from where he’s been to where he is now, coming from where he is to playing in the Championship, then to be playing in the Premier League now, to potentially playing in a World Cup for his country, it’d be a massive boost to his confidence. It’s been tough for him lately in the league because he hasn’t played as many minutes as he would like, but away from that, being able to represent his country is a huge bonus for him and a great bonus for Sunderland as well, because it will give him massive confidence. So, yes, brilliant if he gets the call-up.”
Isidor has struggled for consistency on Wearside this season, and hasn’t found the back of the net at club level since October’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Addressing his decision to represent Haiti in a recent interview, Isidor said: “When I say yes to the call-up, I wanted to help the country grow and achieve a lot of things. But it’s great to be the first Haitian player to play for Sunderland. I hope there is more in the future and they can be inspired by me.”
Your next Sunderland read: Sunderland's surprise announcement explained & what it tells us about future model under Kyril Louis-Dreyfus