Sahin sights on Turkey spot
On-loan midfielder Nuri Sahin is hoping that a prolonged spell in the Liverpool starting XI can boost his chances of regaining a place in the Turkey national team.
The 24-year-old made an instant impact on his bow for his country in 2005, grabbing a goal on his international debut and becoming the youngest player ever to play or score for Turkey in the process.
A further 33 caps have followed, but injuries have hampered Sahin's progress under coach Abdullah Avci and he was restricted to coming on as a substitute in both of Turkey's World Cup qualifiers earlier this month.
Now his sights are set on featuring in 'as many games as possible' for the Reds and, by extension, Turkey.
"First of all, I'll give everything to have a successful season at Liverpool and to play as many games as possible," Sahin told FIFA.com.
"Recently I've experienced how quickly an injury can set you back. And of course, I want to be in the starting 11 for Turkey. That's my main aim and I think I'm close to achieving it."
Currently sitting fourth in a group which also contains Holland, the Turks have eight games remaining to earn a spot at Brazil 2014 and Sahin expects to be showing off his skills in South America.
The former Borussia Dortmund star, who has joined the Reds for one season from Real Madrid, added: "I'm confident I'll be on the pitch in Brazil as long as I stay healthy. That's what I'll be focusing on."
Sahin, the first and only Turkish player to represent Liverpool, also provided an insight into the passion for football in his home country.
"Football plays a huge role in everyday life in Turkey, maybe the biggest role. Not a day goes by when football isn't mentioned. We're so passionate," explained the playmaker.