Sunderland defender Thomas Meunier has been left out of Belgium’s squad for the upcoming international break.

Belgium boss Mark van Bommel has opened up on his decision to omit Sunderland defender Thomas Meunier from his first squad as national team coach, revealing that the veteran talent has vowed to “become important again”.

Meunier is a vastly experienced member of Belgium’s senior international setup, boasting some 83 caps and 10 goals since he made his debut for his country way back in 2013. The 35-year-old was also involved in this summer’s World Cup, featuring three times as Belgium bowed out in the quarter-finals at the hands of eventual champions Spain.

Since then, the Red Devils have undergone a change in the dugout, with Dutch legend Van Bommel replacing Rudi Garcia in the aftermath of their exit in North America. And as part of his inaugural squad announcement, the new head coach has opted to leave Meunier out of his plans for the time being.

As quoted by continental outlet Voetbal Primeur, however, Van Bommel has insisted that the Sunderland man still has an international future, with the player himself seemingly keen to work his way back into contention. The Belgium boss explained: "I told him that it doesn't end for him. It's just that I am currently choosing other players. Thomas didn't agree with that. 'I'm going to become important again,' he said. That's nice."

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So far this season, Meunier - who signed for Sunderland as a free agent during the summer transfer window - has featured in all six of the Black Cats fixtures across all competitions.

Elsewhere, fellow summer signing Malick Fofana has been included in Van Bommel’s squad.

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