Belgium-based midfielder Khaleem Hyland has summed up 2012 as a reasonably decent year for him in the European professional circuit and has set his sights on producing the goods on the international stage for this country at the Concacaf Gold Cup in July.
Hyland made eight Europa League appearances in 2012 for Racing Genk, helping them to top spot in the preliminary group which pushed them through to the Round of 32 where they will meet Stuttgart on February 14 and 21.
Genk drew 0-0 with FC Basel last month to confirm their Group G top finish. As it turns out, once Genk progress beyond the Round of 32 they will take on the winner of the Monchengladbach/Lazio tie.
“I think 2012 was a pretty good year for me and Genk. We did great in the Europa League and also in the Belgium League we have been enjoying a good run. I still feel we can do better in the Belgium League though and we’ll be aiming to come a lot better in 2013.
Hyland said he was not letting any distractions get in his way but maintained that he still holds ambitions to play at the highest level in Europe.
“I have until 2016 on contract with Genk. For now, I am focusing on playing for Genk but if other teams show up interested I will consider because I have ambitions to play at the highest level in Europe.
So far I have played in the Europa and European Champions League with Genk and I’m pretty happy with having done that.
Hyland hopes to be on showcase with T&T at the Gold Cup in July.
“I am always happy and willing to put on the colours of my country but it’s up to the coaches to make that call. They are in charge and they have the last say.
I think it’s great that the national team made it to the Gold Cup. I was very happy to see the boys fight and come through after playing in some tough conditions throughout the Caribbean Cup campaign,” he added.