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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Liam Bryce

Matt O'Riley dreaming of Celtic springboard to the World Cup as midfielder 'won't say no' to Denmark

Matt O'Riley admits joining Celtic has him dreaming of a World Cup call-up.

The midfielder, a January arrival from MK Dons, is eligible to play for England, Norway and Denmark, and insists it's a starring role for the latter that's on his mind.

O'Riley has been an instant hit at Celtic Park, slotting seamlessly into Ange Postecoglou 's midfield.

The 21-year-old has represented England at youth level but says he feels "quite Danish", owing to his mother.

With the World Cup in Qatar approaching in December, he reckons it's not out of the question that he could force his way to the tournament.

"I have had thoughts about the World Cup, I won't lie," O'Riley said at a Celtic fan media event. "It is definitely one of my bigger targets I'd say.

"I feel like it's possible now. I'm playing for a club such as Celtic now and I don't think that is out of the question.

"There is still a long way to go for me to be able to get a call up of that magnitude so we'll see.

"Regarding picking a nation, it is still really early as I haven't actually played for Denmark yet.

"I played for England youth teams but at the same time, I do feel quite Danish.

"My mum is Danish and I can speak a decent amount and I can understand a very good amount.

"In that sense, I don't think it is out of the question at all.

"If I did get a call up from Denmark, I don't think I'd be saying no."

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