Self-assured Sulemana ready for fresh challenge
One half of Southampton’s deadline day recruits, Kamaldeen Sulemana is ready to take on his fourth country at the tender age of 20.
A 15 time Ghanaian international, Sulemana not only adds to the potential but also the experience of this Southampton side.
His first taste of the professional game came in Denmark for FC Nordsjælland, a pathway provided by their Right to Dream Academy, in a move the young forward noted was vital in getting him to the Premier League today.
“They gave me the platform,” recalls Sulemana, “they gave me the confidence and they helped me.
“That’s what made me who I am right now, coming from there. How you start your professional career is very important. I think I started very well which is why I’ve come this far.”
A domestic move to France and a first cap at international level soon followed the fine form in Scandinavia, adding not only experience but also confidence to the developing youngster.
“Moving to France was a risk, but I was willing to take it because I felt like at that moment it was the best thing for me.
“I think overall in France I’m happy with what happened, obviously we had some setbacks with injuries and everything. But I started very well and after the injury I had some pretty good games.
The winter of 2022 then came with the greatest reward of all, the chance to represent your country at the World Cup.
“It’s a great honour. We have 30 million people in the country and you’ve chosen, it’s a great honour. Once you’re on the pitch, there’s no holding back, you just have to give your all. There are so many people looking at you, so many people depending on you.
“There’s a bit of pressure there but without pressure you don’t do your best. Without pressure we don’t go out of your comfort zone. So it’s a great honour to play for the national team and I look forward to playing more with them.”
Now it’s time for a fresh environment and a new test, something Sulemana is relishing ahead of a potential home Premier League debut on Saturday.
"I’m very excited to show each and everyone here what I’m capable of doing. Hopefully I can make an impact in the game. Create chances, score goals, but most importantly get the win.
“I’m looking forward to giving my all to the team. Do what I do best, help the team win. That’s the most important thing. Hopefully we’re able to win more games and stay in the league. That’s the main thing.”
