Before Shkelzen Gashi went off on international break from MLS to participate in Euro 2016, playing for his home country, Albania, the Rapids forward spoke with ColoradoRapids.com about playing in the European championship tournament, Albania's chances and much more.
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Richard Clarke:What does it mean for you to represent Albania in the European championships?
Shkelzen Gashi: I’m very proud because it’s the first time in Albanian history that they’re playing in the Euros. I’m very happy.
RC: What does it mean for Albania as a whole?
SG: All the people are very happy and you feel that when you walk on the street or in the stadium. They’re always bringing the flags and wishing all the best for the Euros. It’s also nice for the people to watch their national team in a major tournament for the first time.
RC: Have you always dreamed of playing in a big tournament like this?
SG: Yes, before I said that I want to play for Albania, I had the dream in my head. I said, ‘I want to go for a big tournament with this team.’ Now I’m happy that we are doing that and we can go to the Euros.
RC: What will it be like to play against the host country, France?
SG: The tournament is in France and they will be at home with big support of the country. For us, we need all the support of our country, and I hope we can play very good and take some points.
RC: As a footballer, are you excited about this moment to represent your country?
SG: Absolutely, this is the biggest tournament in Europe. They have 32 teams—the best 32 teams in Europe. Every player wants to play there. Now it’s about being focused and starting very good because in a tournament, the start is very important.
RC: How far can Albania go?
SG: First, we need to enjoy this tournament because it’s the first time in our history. Then, go game-for-game and step-by-step, focus on the first game then watch the next game. I think we have a good team and why couldn’t we win all our games?
RC: Do you have any personal goals for Euros?
SG: I think the goals for the team and for me are the same: give the best and see after the game where we stand.
