Manchester United's Spanish goalkeeper David de Gea has described his recent international recognition as a "big step".
Despite having impressed between the posts for the Premier League leaders this season, the 22-year-old has found himself behind the likes of Iker Casillas, Victor Valdes and Pepe Reina in the pecking order for the senior team.
However, a hand injury suffered by Casillas opened up a spot in the squad for the upcoming matches against Finland and France and coach Vicente del Bosque has given De Gea an opportunity to prove himself.
"I am very pleased and happy. This is a special moment for me and a big step in my career. I will try to do my best to impress the boss," he told AS. "I want to enjoy this and learn from my team-mates, who are my and many other people's idols.
"It's a pity Iker Casillas is out. We all know he is our captain and a legend but I'm happy to be here, even if it's because of his injury."
De Gea joined United in the summer of 2011 from Atletico Madrid.
Liam Apicella
