D.C. United announced today that midfielder Andy Najar has been called-up by the Honduras National Team for two friendly matches in September. Honduras will face Colombia at Red Bull Arena on September 3 before hosting Paraguay at the Estadio Olimpico Metropolitano in San Pedro Sula on September 6.
"Words can’t describe how I feel at this moment," said Najar. "I am so excited to have this opportunity to play for my native country. As a player, it is always your dream to represent your national team. I want to thank the Honduras Federation for calling me in and giving me an opportunity to show my talent at the international level. I also want to thank my family and all the fans for their support. I will work as hard as I can and try to do my best to help the Honduras national team be successful on the pitch."
Najar, 18, is scheduled to join the Honduran team in New Jersey on August 29, and his international duty will not interfere with D.C. United’s schedule. So far this season, the young Honduran has played 19 matches (16 starts), registering three goals and four assists in 1,451 minutes of play with the Black-and-Red.
"We’re very excited and happy for Andy to have this opportunity to play for the Honduras national team and showcase his talent on the international level," said General Manager Dave Kasper. "We wish Andy and the Honduras national team all the best in these upcoming matches."
The 2010 MLS Rookie of the Year announced on April 6, 2011 that he wished to represent Honduras at the national team level. Signing with United as a 17-year-old Academy product in March of 2010, Najar became the youngest player in MLS history to capture Rookie of the Year honors following his five-goal inaugural campaign.
