Osijek defender Stepan Mkrtchyan has been called up to the Armenia national team for the UEFA Nations League playoff matches against Georgia, sportaran.com reports, citing the club’s press service.

Mkrtchyan is the first player to receive a call-up under new head coach John van't Schip. The full squad list will be announced later, but it is already clear that the Dutch specialist has made his selection.

The 22-year-old had previously struggled with health issues but has recently recovered and started featuring more frequently on the pitch.

As part of the UEFA Nations League 2024/2025 playoff round, Armenia will host Georgia in Yerevan on March 20, with the return match set for March 23 in Tbilisi.