Football
Kevin Palmer 9y

West Brom striker Saido Berahino grateful to England

Burundi-born Saido Berahino has expressed his delight after receiving his first call-up to the senior England side, saying: "This country gave me a second chance in life."

Berahino has lived in England since the age of 10 and has been called into Roy Hodgson's squad for this month's Euro 2016 qualifier Slovenia and friendly with Scotland after having impressed for his adopted country at under-21 level.

The 21-year-old, who has scored seven goals in 10 Premier League matches so far this season for West Brom, told his club's official website: "My long-term vision was to get into the seniors with England and do the club proud. My mum hasn't stopped talking about it all week.

"I've tried not to think about it, but it's been hard when all of my family members have been reminding me that the squad was being announced today.

"This country gave me a second chance in life. I came to this country and it has provided me and my family with a safe place and a better place to live in. It's given me a chance to perform what I want to achieve in life. I feel very lucky that my family and West Bromwich Albion have looked after me and guided me."

Berahino, who first represented the nation at under-16 level, added: "I'll be very proud and honoured to represent England. I remember coming home and seeing I'd got my first-ever call up for England as a schoolboy. I was excited then and I'm excited now.

"It will be a very emotional experience for me. If selected, I will play with all my heart."

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