Boy from Brazil makes mark in Belgium
Wednesday 11 February 2009
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He admits to not knowing the prime minister's name, but naturalised Belgian Igor De Camargo could hardly be more excited after his maiden call-up to the national squad ahead of the friendly against Slovenia in Genk on Wednesday.
Boy from Brazil
Despite being born in Brazil, De Camargo has spent his entire professional life in Belgium since joining KRC Genk in 2000 and was given a passport for his adopted homeland last October. "I have been working for this for nine years and in every one I have progressed – do I feel Belgian? I don't know the name of the current prime minister, but do know the last one," said the 25-year-old, who could be forgiven for that lapse in knowledge following the recent change in Belgium's political hierarchy.
Experience
"I also know the tune of the national anthem," De Camargo added. "I have adjusted very well to life in Belgium, and I am here to contribute." Now at R. Standard de Liège, the attacking midfielder was summoned to the national setup by head coach René Vandereycken, who he has worked under before. "I know him pretty well from when we worked together at Genk [2004/05]. He has explained what he expects from me. He has a talented young squad, but it also needs the experience I can offer."
Breakthrough season
De Camargo joined Standard Liège three years ago, after short spells with FC Brussels and K. Heusden-Zolder, but has truly come to the fore this season following Marouane Fellaini's departure for Everton FC. Taking on the role of goalscoring midfielder, De Camargo played a key part in his side's progression from a tough group to the UEFA Cup Round of 32. Although he is by no means a veteran, he adds an important element of experience to Standard who have blooded precocious 20-year-old talents Steven Defour and Axel Witsel – players De Camargo will also line up alongside with the national team.
He has a good mentality and is the type of player we are looking for; there are not many like him in Belgium
René Vandereycken on Igor De Camargo
Attacking option
He will also give Vandereycken an extra attacking option. "He has proven he can play at a high level and done very well for Standard, especially in Europe," the 55-year-old coach said. "He has a good mentality and is the type of player we are looking for; there are not many like him in Belgium. Now, we will no longer be forced to send centre-back Daniel Van Buyten up front when we need a goal in the final minutes. Igor will certainly get some game time." Although it might not be huge news back in the country of his birth, De Camargo knows at least one person in Brazil will follow Wednesday's friendly closely. "I immediately phoned my mother in Brazil after the call-up," he said. "She is delighted. I hope I will get to play, even if it's as a substitute. My mother will watch the match live on television."
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