The 26-year-old attacking midfielder could become only the second player of Indian heritage to play at a World Cup, following France’s Vikash Dhorasoo, who played in 2006, if he is chosen for the New Zealand side next summer and he has been overwhelmed by the “love and interest” he has received.

He told World Soccer magazine: “Growing up, it was very rare to see a player who looked like me or shared my background playing at the highest level.

“As I’ve grown older, I’ve become more appreciative of the importance of representation.

“It’s truly humbling that I’m in a position to inspire Indian and South Asian footballers in general.

“If you look at my socials you would think India have qualified for the World Cup and not New Zealand!

“The love and interest from Indian football fans and media has been incredible.

“There is a very big Indian community in the US and Canada and I’m pretty sure they will come out to support us.”

Sarpreet and his family enjoyed an “incredibly proud” moment when he turned out for New Zealand against India back in 2018.

He said: “It was a unique occasion. It’s not every day a footballer named Singh plays against India in India.

“I had to deal with a lot of media attention.

“It was an incredibly proud moment for my family.

“We won the game 2-1 and I had two assists, so naturally I was very happy with that.

“India are tough opponents.

“Sharing the pitch with Sunil Chhetri was special. He’s a legend of Indian football.”