Dedryck Boyata: “I work hard to get playing time and I got some today” | OneFootball

After a period of knee woes, Dedryck Boyata completed his first full game in Club Brugge attire. Joined by Brandon Mechele, the Belgian defender organised defense in keeping STVV at bay.

“I feel great. I'm happy with the win, and the fact that I was allowed playing time today. After the games against Porto and Standard I felt something was wrong with my knee. Together with Club I worked hard to recover. Now it's going a lot better. I have had my fair share of injuries throughout my career, and the scars go to show. I'm on the right track again now. We now have to wait and see whether a reaction will come. But I have no doubt it will all be just fine.”

Dedryck Boyata is feeling right at home in Bruges. “The first few months have been great here in Bruges. I have a good connection with everyone, coach and physios. They give me the time to adjust without preparation. I don't feel any pressure, the team is doing well. You could say these are ideal circumstances to work in. It's very interesting to be a part of this group, you're competing with players in great form. We are all training so hard to get that spot in the Starting XI. I'm ery positive about that. The defenders are working hard, and even with some personnel changes in the back, we are always going for that clean sheet. I'm very happy to be back here in Belgium, close to my family in Brussels and in Bruges. The move to Knokke could be better, but for the rest everything's working out great. I visited Bruges on a trip often before.”

The Belgian defender has set his sights on a third consecutive big tournament with the national team. "I want to earn those playing minutes in a correct fashion, the WC is coming and I want to be a part of it. I was there in the last two big tournaments, but I have to keep working for my selection. I'm working so hard to get playing time, and today I got some. Even if Sylla's suspension is not a good thing for the team. I spoke to national boss Martinez in Madrid. He asked me about my situation; he would like me to be back in the best of circumstances.” (KN)