Kilmarnock star put on red alert as dream World Cup opportunity arises
The big defender could be called up by New Zealand for next month's friendlies with Poland and Norway, Record Sport can reveal
Kilmarnock star George Stanger has been put on red alert for his first New Zealand call-up.
The defender has made the step back up to the Premiership from Ayr United and has been a standout for Stuart Kettlewell’s side.
The 25-year-old’s form has not gone unnoticed by New Zealand boss Darren Bazeley.
Record Sport understands All-Whites boss is considering calling up Stanger for next month’s friendlies away to Poland and Norway.
Bazeley is looking to see what he has got as he prepares for next year’s World Cup finals.
He already has Elijah Just who made the move to Motherwell earlier this season and has also impressed in the Premiership.
New Zealand overcame New Caledonia earlier this year to book their return to the World Cup after a 16-year wait.
Stanger has previously played for New Zealand at under-20 and 23 level.
He represented them at the under-20 World Cup back in 2019 and two years later was named in their squad for the delayed 2020 summer Olympics.
He knows the door could open for him if he makes the squad and seals a place in the finals, which are due to be held in America, Canada and Mexico if he continues to impress at Rugby Park.
Stanger was born in Melrose and is the son of former Scotland rugby star Tony Stanger but qualifies for New Zealand through his Auckland-born mum, BId.
The centre half came through the ranks at Hamilton before he turned out for the University of Stirling.
Former Accies boss Brian Rice took him back into the senior ranks with Alloa Athletic and since then his career hasn’t looked back as he impressed there and then at Scott Brown's Ayr United, before Kettlewell moved to take him across the Ayrshire divide in the summer.
Kilmarnock claimed their first league win at the weekend away to Dundee United.
Kettlewell reinstated Bruce Anderson into his starting XI because he felt he could make an impact. His crystal ball was fully operational, as he netted the opener at Tannadice before Robbie Deas sealed the win.
Kettlewell explained: “Djenairo Daniels has been good for us this season but we saw something in the game for Bruce to start.
“Give credit to him. He has had a bit of disappointment, the same as Greg Kiltie, the previous week.
“They have both been desperate to start and play and show what they have got. “I pleased for Bruce to get the goal and Djenairo’s reaction when he came on to the pitch.
“It is nice to look at your bench and to see you have so much experience, quality and a bit of youth in there as well. The subs have contributed all season.
“Nobody is sulking and we all have the one focus and it is to try and make us as successful as we possibly can. Hopefully, that win gives us a wee kick start.”
They entertain St Mirren at home on Saturday. Killie boss Kettlewell hopes to have Scott Tiffoney back for that one.
Kettlewell confirmed: “We are still missing Jamie Brandon, who has been out for a few weeks.
“Scott Tiffoney was with us today and just missed out on the squad. He is edging closer.
“I think we all know in Scottish football what he brings. He brings a different skill-set, with his pace and energy.
“Hopefully, we can keep players fit and that will give me that headache.”