Manchester United's Timothy Fosu-Mensah receives first international call up for Holland

Manchester United defender Timothy Fosu-Mensah has received his first international call-up for Holland's upcoming friendlies against the Republic of Ireland, Poland and Austria. The 18-year-old star made his United debut earlier this year and could earn his first cap on 27 May against Ireland.

Fosu-Mensah, who was reportedly caught in the midst of a tug-of-war between Holland and Ghana, has previously played for Holland's under-19 side and has apparently committed his international career to the Europeans. Despite his lack of experience, Holland coach Danny Blind has already decided to call on the United defender for his new-look squad, which does not feature the likes of Klass-Jan Huntelaar or Robin van Persie.

Last month, meanwhile, United boss Louis van Gaal admitted he still did not know Fosu-Mensah's best position, after the youngster impressed as a fullback and as a central defender. The former Ajax man has also played as a central midfielder for the club's youth and reserve sides.

"Players in my squad are playing in different positions than what they are used to in their former careers. When there is a vacancy and you think a young player has the quality to play there, you give him the chance and he takes it," Van Gaal reflected on Fosu-Mensah's promotion to the first team.

The Dutch boss also said he could see the teenage star making a similar transition to that made by his club teammate Bastian Schweinsteiger, who began his career as a winger before switching to a central midfield role. "You can ask Bastian Schweinsteiger who, at Bayern Munich, played on the right side.

"I made him a centre midfielder because I looked at his profile and I thought he can better play in the middle and he enjoys it more," Van Gaal recalled.

Holland - who have not qualified for Euro 2016 - are set to take on the Republic of Ireland on 27 May, followed by Poland on 1 June and Austria on 4 June.