Trey Ogunsuyi is a young Belgian player who currently plays for Sunderland in England. He was recently capped for the first time for the U18 national team and made his first minutes for the Sunderland first team in a friendly match against South Shields on July 8 2023.
Can you tell us about your football career, which clubs did you play for?
My career started at Sunderland academy and has continued there until present day. I joined when I was 10 and I have been through the age groups up to U18s.
What positions can you play and what is your favourite position?
The positions I can play are all attacking options – RW, LW, and ST. I can also play 10 if need be but my preferred position is 9.
Who is your favourite Belgian player?
My favourite Belgian player, I would have to say, is Eden Hazard because he is always someone I would watch in the premier league when he played for Chelsea. His playmaking was very entertaining and for international duty he was always impressive.
Is there a player who has been or still is your role model?
The role model that I’ve always looked up to is Cristiano Ronaldo. This is because I believe he is the best player ever because his mentality is really good. His professionalism is something I admire as well.
You were recently selected for the Belgian national team, what was your feeling when you found out you were selected?
Hearing I was called up was amazing. The feeling is really great; knowing I’m going to play with the best and against the best at my age and just being able to represent a country like Belgium is always an honour.
You also scored your first international goal in the final seconds of the match against South Korea. How did you feel after scoring?
Best moment with the national team so far is getting a last minute equaliser. I was so happy when the ball went in, and my teammates made it even better when they all came over.
You played your first minutes with the Sunderland A team this summer against South Shields in a friendly match and you were instantly dangerous with a shot on the crossbar. How did you experience this opportunity?
To be allowed an opportunity to play some minutes with the first team was unreal. I thought I did quite well when I came on and was close to scoring which would have topped it off. I enjoyed playing with the fans – it’s always nice to hear the crowd after you do something well.
Last season you participated in the second half of the U18 season at just 16 years old and the team finished second in the Premier League North behind Manchester City and ahead of Manchester United. Can you tell us about this season from your point of view?
The team was full of talented players that pushed Man City all the way to the end. They had a long streak of wins and when I was being put into that team, I felt a little pressure. The more I played with them I felt more comfortable and was able to pick up 2 goals and 1 assist.
What are your goals for this new season in the U18 Premier League?
My new targets this season are to hit double digits in goals. I’ve had an injury that held me back a bit but I’m still determined to achieve and do everything for the team.
Special thanks to Bill for his help in creating this interview
