Mignolet to fulfil 'childhood dream'
'A childhood dream come true' – that is how Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet describes the opportunity he has been given to travel to Brazil for the World Cup this summer.
The 26-year-old is part of a vaunted Belgium contingent that meets Algeria, Russia and South Korea at the showpiece tournament in South America.
Reward for a debut campaign at Anfield which featured an array of memorable saves, clearances and crucial denials, Mignolet cannot hide his delight with the call.
With an increasing number of Belgians plying their trade in the Barclays Premier League, much discussion has centred on their potential to surprise.
In typically measured fashion, however, the Reds' No.22 is focused on one challenge at a time - beginning with the task of qualifying from the group stage.
"The first objective was to qualify," the 'keeper explained to FIFA.com.
"It's been a long time since that happened and we're delighted to be making the trip to Brazil. Our next goal is to make the second round. After that, we'll just have to wait and see.
"On a personal note, it's a childhood dream come true to be taking part in an event like this."