Eighteen-year-old Gent defender Victor Vandenbroucke has decided to temporarily stop representing the Honduras national team. The Belgian youth international received zero minutes of playing time during his first call-up and did not feel it was the right place for him.
Vandenbroucke was first called up by manager José Francisco Molina for four matches against Suriname, Jamaica and Martinique. He was on the bench twice and in the stands twice. The player, who was born in the United States and moved to Belgium at age ten, explained his choice.
"From the first moment I came with a lot of enthusiasm and respect, and with the desire to represent the country with which I have a very special bond through my mother," said Vandenbroucke. He stressed his decision is personal and not a sign of disrespect. "I have noticed that at this moment I do not feel this is my place." The door remains open for a future return.
The defender is now focusing entirely on Jong KAA Gent in the Challenger Pro League. This season he has played eight matches for the reserve team, scoring one goal and providing one assist. His development is the priority. He retains the option to represent the United States or Belgium in the future, having previously played for youth teams of both nations.
Vandenbroucke's mother, Sarahi Vallecillo, had previously criticised the Honduran federation for calling up players who do not get game time. For the player himself, the matter is now closed. He wants to concentrate on his club career while KAA Gent's first team enjoys a strong start to the season.
Gent currently sit second in the Jupiler Pro League with 19 points from seven games. Hein Vanhaezebrouck's side is unbeaten in its last five league matches. The next fixture is away to Zulte Waregem. The full standings and squad for KAA Gent are available on this site.
Read the full report at voetbalbelgie.be
