Juventus goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has been impressed by Ipswich stopper Bartosz Bialkowski following his first call-up to the Polish national team.
Bialkowski is currently away with the Poland squad after earning his first call-up following two years of stunning form, and now has a chance to stake a claim for a place at this summer’s World Cup in Russia.
He could make his debut on Friday night when his country host Nigeria in a friendly, followed by a second game at home to South Korea on Tuesday.
Szczesny, Poland’s first choice goalkeeper, first met Bialkowski a decade ago when the pair travelled to Canada as part of Poland’s squad for the U20 World Cup.
Back then, Bialkowski was the junior team’s first choice goalkeeper and Szczesny is pleased the Ipswich player has won a senior call-up.
“It’s nice that we have a group of goalkeepers where we all understand each other well,” the Juventus goalkeeper said.
“He may play on the lower level in England, but he has done very well and deserves to be called. His example shows that the doors are open to everyone.
“Ten years ago I met him and thought he could be the Poland goalie for years. He has changed - for the better.”
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As well as Szczesny, Bialkowski is in a squad including Swansea’s Lukasz Fabianski and Lukasz Skorupski of Roma.
While Szczesny and Fabianski are all-but assured of their places on the plane, Skorupski’s lack of action this season (he’s played just once for his club) could open a door for Ipswich goalkeeper Bialkowski to reach the World Cup.
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