ZeeboiArne Engels is adamant that there’s no personal competition between him and Nico Raskin for a spot in Belgium’s national team, emphasizing their distinct playing styles.
The Celtic midfielder expressed his hope that both he and his Rangers counterpart can represent their country together, despite their rivalry across Glasgow’s Old Firm divide.
Raskin, who plays for Rangers, received a call-up in the last international window, while Engels already boasts four senior caps. Having previously teamed up in Belgium’s Under-21 setup, Engels believes there’s room for both in Rudi Garcia’s plans.
Speaking on the matter, Engels said: “I don’t see it as a rivalry because Nico is a different type of player to me. I just focus on my own game and winning trophies with Celtic. That’s how it needs to be. I don’t really speak to Nico but I think we have a good relationship.
“If we see each other in the game, we respect each other because we’re both Belgian – that’s normal with another countryman. I have nothing against Nico.
“I was with him in the Under-21 Euros squad for Belgium. And if I see him we always have a nice chat. It would be great for us both to be in the Belgium squad together.”
Engels’ versatility in Celtic’s midfield could bolster his case for a national team spot. Manager Brendan Rodgers has occasionally used him as a deep-lying midfielder in the absence of captain Callum McGregor.
More often, though, he’s been unleashed to push forward, a role that’s seen him rack up 10 goals this season.
Engels is happy to adapt to any position for Celtic, as long as he’s making an impact at both ends of the field.
He explained: “I just play where the manager puts me, I don’t have a choice!
“I’m trying my best in every position and I feel good where I’m playing now for Celtic. I’m performing well defensively and offensively for the team but I’ve still got things to work on like every player – that’s not just me.
“I’ll just play where the manager puts me and where the team needs me.”
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