Buendia targets Argentina call-up after making Premier League impact with Canaries

Emi Buendia's defensive work had Canaries fans on their feet during the win over Manchester City Picture: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Paul Chesterton

The dream of playing for Argentina is adding further motivation for Emi Buendia to shine in the Premier League for Norwich City.

Share Email this article to a friend To send a link to this page you must be logged in.

The 22-year-old was the star of the show as the Canaries pulled off a superb 3-2 victory over reigning champions Manchester City on Saturday, with two assists and a key role in the other goal.

The televised Carrow Road encounter has boosted Buendia's profile and lead to him featuring as a guest on Argentine TV station TYC Sports.

"I was lucky enough to play for the Under-20s in 2015. It was a dream to wear my country's shirt and obviously I wish I can play with them in the future," the former Real Madrid trainee explained.

"So that's why I am working so hard with the team I am playing, to develop and improve so then I can have an opportunity in the near future."

City signed the tenacious midfielder for an initial £1.5million from Spanish side Getafe in 2018 and he went on to score eight goals and assisted a further 13 during his 38 Championship appearances to play a key role in the club's promotion to the Premier League.

He continued: "This is one of the strongest leagues in the world, there are lots of Argentinean players here and I have to make the best of this opportunity and keep working.

"As long as Norwich City is doing well, hopefully I wish soon will have another opportunity."

MORE: Canaries duo named in Premier League Team of the Week - with Farke in charge

Argentina internationals Sergio Aguero and Nicolas Ottamendi - who he stole possession from for the third goal - were opponents at Carrow Road at the weekend and Buendia was asked if it was the first time he had played against Aguero, who has scored 40 goals in 96 games for the South Americans.

"Yes, that's right," Buendia responded with a laugh. "(We spoke) a little bit after the match. He was a bit sad because of the performance, so it was a bit quick."

Of the landmark victory over Manchester City, he added: "I am so happy and pleased with the success from the other day, still trying to believe the great result we had really.

"Before you start you know who your opponent is, Manchester City, Premier league winner, so you know it's definitely going to be a very difficult match, especially with their style of playing.

"So you try to train the best way possible, you know that you have to work hard, especially without the ball, but luckily we had a great first half of the match."

- You can follow chief Norwich City reporter David Freezer on Twitter @davefreezer or on Facebook @DavidFreezer1