Germany U21 manager Horst Hrubesch has assembled his provisional European Championship squad for a two day meeting in Frankfurt am Main. 1899 Hoffenheim’s Jeremy Toljan has received his first call-up. DFB.de caught up with the defender to talk about his first impressions and new aims.
DFB.de: When and how did you find out about your call-up, Mr Toljan?
Jeremy Toljan: I found out late Monday afternoon. I was actually meant to jet off on holiday the next day. I was delighted to receive the call and invitation from Horst Hrubesch and am pleased to be here. For a footballer, there’s nothing greater than linking up with your national team.
DFB.de: DFB President Wolfgang Niersbach spoke to the team about the second most important UEFA tournament at senior level. Would you happily postpone your summer break for the chance to participate at the U21 European Championship?
Toljan: I'd happily give up my holiday. For a footballer, there’s nothing better than playing in such a prestigious tournament. Football takes priority. I’m really excited to have the opportunity to fight for my place in the final squad. Getting a seat on the plane to the European Championship is my current aim.
DFB.de: How well do you know your new teammates?
Toljan: Very well! I’m at the same club as the captain (Kevin Volland; editor’s note) and I know the majority of the others from Germany youth teams or Bundesliga matches. The atmosphere here amongst the team is special and that makes it really fun.
DFB.de: What are your expectations for next week’s training camp for the European Championship?
Germany U21 manager Horst Hrubesch has assembled his provisional European Championship squad for a two day meeting in Frankfurt am Main. 1899 Hoffenheim’s Jeremy Toljan has received his first call-up. DFB.de caught up with the defender to talk about his first impressions and new aims.
DFB.de: When and how did you find out about your call-up, Mr Toljan?
Jeremy Toljan: I found out late Monday afternoon. I was actually meant to jet off on holiday the next day. I was delighted to receive the call and invitation from Horst Hrubesch and am pleased to be here. For a footballer, there’s nothing greater than linking up with your national team.
DFB.de: DFB President Wolfgang Niersbach spoke to the team about the second most important UEFA tournament at senior level. Would you happily postpone your summer break for the chance to participate at the U21 European Championship?
Toljan: I'd happily give up my holiday. For a footballer, there’s nothing better than playing in such a prestigious tournament. Football takes priority. I’m really excited to have the opportunity to fight for my place in the final squad. Getting a seat on the plane to the European Championship is my current aim.
DFB.de: How well do you know your new teammates?
Toljan: Very well! I’m at the same club as the captain (Kevin Volland; editor’s note) and I know the majority of the others from Germany youth teams or Bundesliga matches. The atmosphere here amongst the team is special and that makes it really fun.
DFB.de: What are your expectations for next week’s training camp for the European Championship?
Toljan: You immediately realise that there’s an enormous amount of talent in the U21 squad. I’m going to try to slot in as quickly as possible and show what I’m capable of in training. We’ll then just have to wait and see what happens.
