Kilmarnock defender George Stanger has described making his full New Zealand debut as the proudest moment of his career so far. The 26-year-old made his All Whites bow in last week's 2-2 draw with Palestine, then came off the bench to help keep a clean sheet in Sunday's 3-0 win over China.
Debut delight after long wait
“It was so good to finally make my full international debut for New Zealand against Palestine,” Stanger said. “It's obviously something that, you know, I've been working towards for a while; being involved in a couple of camps last season, so to finally get on the pitch and make my debut was a special moment. It is probably the biggest moment of my career so far.
“Unfortunately, with the first two games being in China none of my family were out, but I have spoken to them and I know everyone's super proud. I owe a lot to my family for everything they've done for me over the years to help me get to this stage in my career, so it is a really special moment for us all.”
Shirt to be framed
Stanger has kept his shirt from the Palestine game and plans to get it framed as a memento, even though it is no longer in pristine condition. “I think there's something that they're kind of working on in that regard (giving out physical caps),” he explained.
“I think there's boys from past years that they're trying to backdate and get them their kind of first cap, it's obviously, special for everyone who gets that honour. I would have something to keep and maybe pass down to your kids one day and stuff like that.
“I have my shirt at the moment from the Palestine game. It has got a rip on the side, so I guess it makes it a bit more special in a way. It definitely shows it's game-worn. I'll get it framed and put up somewhere as well.”
Humidity and a new style
New Zealand now travel from China to Japan for two games, starting with Thursday's match against Panama. The biggest challenge for Stanger has not been the step up to international football but the humidity in Asia.
“It's very humid out here. It is about getting used to the heat. It is so different from Scotland and takes a bit of getting used to,” said the former Ayr player. “I've played with New Zealand at the Olympics in 2020 so I knew what to expect in terms of the humidity but your body also needs to adapt.
“You also have to get used to the different playing styles, as New Zealand play in a different way from Kilmarnock. All in all it is good experience and something I want to get more of going forward.”
Kiwis thriving in Scotland
Stanger knew many of the players from New Zealand's under-age ranks and from being called up to a squad last season. It also helps that there are familiar Kiwi faces in the Scottish Premiership, with Jesse Randall at Dundee United and goalkeeper Alex Paulsen at Motherwell. Elijah Just was also there last season before he swapped Motherwell for a big-money move to Swansea City.
“I think it's been good for New Zealand football, obviously with guys coming over to Europe in general and just different leagues around the world,” Stanger said. “The Scottish Premiership is highly thought of because boys have come over and done really well.
“Eli's the prime example. He had a fantastic year last year and thoroughly deserved his move. It creates a bit of a pathway for other Kiwis to come over. There are also new faces I haven't seen for a few years, so it's nice to catch up with them. There are also the boys playing in Scotland. There's boys that I've known for a good few years now from playing under-age group stuff with them and stuff like that as well.”
