Sebastien Pocognoli: Belgium call-up is my reward

The full-back, who is currently on a season-long loan at Brighton & Hove Albion, struggled for minutes under the Welshman and he lost his place in the national team because he wasn't playing first team football.

But the 29-year-old has now been recalled to the squad for the first time in two years after Jordan Lukaku fell injured and Marouane Fellaini picked up a suspension.

"Two years ago, I was so happy because I was playing in the Premier League regularly, but a manager disrupted everything," said Pocognoli.

"This call-up, I take it like a reward, especially for my family who supported me when things weren't going too well for me."

Pocognoli's contract runs out next summer and it's unlikely he'll ever return to The Hawthorns, but it hasn't been plain sailing for him on the south coast either.

The left-back has only made one appearance in the Championship so far, and admitted the call from Roberto Martinez was unexpected.

"I'm still a little surprised by the timing, but happy," he said. "I know Roberto Martinez followed my progress because when I moved he asked my new coach about my fitness.

"I know my selection is down to injuries but I intend to make the most of it. I always follow the results of the Devils with the greatest attention and even though I have not played during the last two years, I have kept contact with several players."

One of those players is long-term friend Nacer Chadli, who was recalled to the Belgium squad after missing out on Euro 2016.