'I’ve never felt more sad' - Dominik Szoboszlai reflects on Hungary's loss to Ireland

The Liverpool midfielder believes his owes Hungary a World Cup campaign.

NEVER BEEN MORE SAD: Troy Parrott ruined Dominik Szoboszlai's chances of leading Hungary to the 2026 World Cup. Pic: Ben McShane/Sportsfile

During his interview with Sky Sports ahead of Liverpool’s trip to Arsenal, Dominik Szoboszlai was asked about what he would still like to achieve in his career.

“Win the Champions League,” he begins, knowing that is now the biggest prize on offer this season as the Premier League champions have no chance of retaining their title.

“Winning the Premier League again,” is how he concludes his club ambitions and the segment but in between that he discusses his aspirations at international level.

But talking about Hungary brings up some painful, recent memoires. And one significant defeat in particular.

“Being in the next Euros with Hungary. Being in the next World Cup with Hungary, after we… don’t talk about it,” he sighs, before then being asked about it.

How tough was their loss to the Republic of Ireland in Budapest, thanks to Troy Parrott’s hat-trick which saw the Boys in Green snatch a playoff spot from Hungary’s grasp, for him?

“It was very tough,” admitted the Hungary captain.

“I’ve never felt more sad. I wasn’t angry, I was sad, more sad than this, never, ever before. So, I owe them a World Cup.”

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Back to club football and Szoboszlai also had a warning for Arsenal, who host Liverpool at the Emirates on Thursday night.

The Gunners are currently top of table, six points clear of their nearest challengers Manchester City and Aston Villa, and a massive 14 points clear of the current title holders.

"It's a long way (to go),” reminded the Reds’ midfielder.

“The Premier League is not easy. You don't win it by January, so I don't think we are playing against the champions. They're playing against the champions.

"They know as well. We know as well. Of course, they are one of the favourites for this year. Unbelievable team, really good players.

"But we shouldn't forget about Manchester City and Aston Villa, who is doing very good. So yeah, we don't play against the champions. They play against the champions."