SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Germany-born Jens Castrop became the first foreign-born, mixed heritage player selected for the South Korea national team squad on Monday, ahead of games against World Cup co-hosts the United States and Mexico.

Castrop, who has a German father and a Korean mother and was born in Dusseldorf, was called up by South Korea head coach Hong Myung-bo for the matches next month.

The 22-year-old midfielder, a former Germany youth and Under-21 player, had his formal switch of national eligibility signed off by FIFA two weeks ago.

“Although Castrop is young, he is a player who has consistently grown while gaining experience in the Bundesliga,” Hong said. “Above all, I highly value the strong will and sense of responsibility he has shown to join our national team.

“I ho

See Full Page