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SUNDERLAND keeper Thomas Sorensen
is delighted with the opportunity to press home his claims as Danish number one, after
Peter
Schmeichel`s decision to retire from international football.
The former Manchester United legend has called it a day after enjoying great success with the national side, the pinnacle of his Denmark career being the shock European Championship win in 1992.
And that opens the door to Sunderland shot-stopper Sorensen, who has long been seen as the great man`s heir apparent.
"I am obviously very happy and it is a big opportunity for me to establish myself as the number one," Sorensen told the official Sunderland website.
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"I know I`ll be given that chance.
"I thought I would be back on the bench for the Ireland game next week, and this adds extra spice to the season.
"The World Cup is a long way away, but now the challenge for me is to help Denmark qualify, we have some exciting games coming up.
"It will also give me a boost when I play for Sunderland. I am looking forward to the next week or so - our game at Leicester, and then an important international fixture in Ireland."
The 24-year-old was sad to see criticism of his predecessor in the Danish press, after some less impressive performances from the Sporting Lisbon man.
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"Peter is a legend in Denmark," added Sorensen. "One of the country`s main football men and I don`t agree with the recent criticism he has had."
"Everyone who has worked with Peter has learned from him and there is no doubt he has helped my game."