New Zealand-based Manukau United Under 23 defensive midfielder Caleb Prasad is confident he will get that call to be part of the Fijian Under 20 team for the 2023 FIFA Under 20 World Cup.
The 19-year-old was part of the Junior Bula Boys trial and made his debut in the friendlies against Auckland in July this year before his Visa denial saw his name out of the OFC World Cup qualifiers in Tahiti.
Speaking to FijiLive, Prasad said despite missing out on the qualifiers, he is working hard to make the cut into the team for the World Cup.
“It’s not the end of the road for me,” Prasad said.
“Visa and personal reasons didn’t get me in the OFC qualifiers but now I’m sorting this out.”
“I want to be part of Fiji Under 19 team because I have links to the country.”
“It’s a great team and I think I have an opportunity again to be in the team. The World Cup is just a few months away and I know the boys will get back in camp and I’m also hoping for a spot in the team.”
“Definitely, I was with the team for trials and then we came back to New Zealand for the build-up matches but then I got dropped due to Visa.”
Prasad also featured for the New Zealand Fiji Football Incorporated (NZFFI) All Stars in the 2022 Pacific Community Cup aiming to stay in his best form.
“There have been a lot of competitions and tournaments in New Zealand and also coming to Fiji for this one was a great opportunity for me.”
“As a player, I always keep myself in the best form because I never know when I could get a call-up.”
“I think these tournaments and competitions really keep us players, at bay and it also helps us in our fitness.”
“It’s a big challenge when we return to football after a big break and then we have to work extra hard to get in our best form.”
“I’m just keeping up in my best form and trying to improve my midfield position. Always after every game, there are some improvements to do and these tournaments are really helping me to strengthen my position,” he added.
