Steven Alzate is closing in on an international debut for Colombia.

The Albion midfielder was yesterday named in coach Carlos Queiroz’s 34-man initial squad for two friendlies in the USA next month.

Queiroz is expected to trim his squad at some point next week for Colombia’s final warm-up fixtures ahead of their 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign.

They take on Peru in Miami and Ecuador in New Jersey.

Colombian fans and media alike were yesterday scrambling for information on the Camden-born 21-year-old who has broken through into the Premier League in the last six weeks.

Reaction to his surprise call-up was generally very favourable.

Alzate was recently withdrawn from the national under-23 squad to play Peru due to a minor injury but could now stake his claim with the seniors.

Alzate told brightonandhovealbion.com: “It’s a very proud moment for me and my family and a massive achievement.

“It’s an honour to play for my country and something I’ve been looking forward to for a long time now.”

He was playing on loan at League Two side Swindon only last season and, with Republic of Ireland international Aaron Connolly, was in Albion’s under-23s as recently as August.

Head coach Graham Potter, who has brought Alzate into the Prem, said after his performance against Everton on Saturday: “I thought he was fantastic. His ability to take the ball in tight situations and find a solution was at a really high level under big pressure.”

Alzate has Colombian parents and has always made it clear he dreams of representing the South American nation.

Connolly looks set to make a third appearance for the Irish seniors after being named in their latest provisional squad, along with Seagulls centre-back Shane Duffy.

The Irish play New Zealand in a friendly before their crucial clash with Denmark in Dublin, which will decide Euro 2020 qualification.