World Cup

Yannick Carrasco: 'I can make Belgium World Cup squad'

By Jonny Whitfield, Reporter | 27 February 2018

Yannick Carrasco says that he can still make Belgium's World Cup squad, despite penning a move to Chinese side Dalian Yifang on Monday.

Yannick Carrasco has said that he can still make Belgium's World Cup squad, despite penning a move to Chinese side Dalian Yifang on Monday.

The 24-year-old, who sealed the switch from Atletico Madrid alongside teammate Nicolas Gaitan, has scored five goals in 22 appearances for his national team so far.

Carrasco has added that he is determined to "make the necessary efforts" and keep his place in Roberto Martinez's plans for the upcoming finals in Russia.

"My distance from the European continent does not mean that my ambition to participate in the World Cup is reduced," the midfielder told reporters. "I will make the necessary efforts to show the coach of the Belgian team that I am ready to participate in the World Cup in Russia this summer.

"The Chinese championship is booming, the working conditions are excellent, the new infrastructures are modern and they are available for both players and fans. The level of play improves every season.

"I am very happy and eager to join my new teammates at Dalian Yifang in the coming days. The project and offer of the club are a great sign of confidence and respect, and represent an opportunity to develop my qualities and my future."

Carrasco joins the likes of Hulk, Ezequiel Lavezzi, Fabio Capello and Axel Witsel in moving to China.