Vladimir Weiss insists he deserves his place in Slovakia's World Cup starting XI.
The Manchester City youngster - set to play against New Zealand today - is the son of the Slovakia national coach of the same name.
But far from making him an automatic choice, Weiss says he has had to work extra hard to win over the doubters.
A bit-part role at Eastlands followed by a loan spell at Bolton where he struggled to get a regular start did not help his cause.
Weiss, 20, said: "A lot of people on the internet or wherever are saying I shouldn't be in there. There are a lot of opinions.
"There are no problems with the other players but I had to prove myself to people back home.
"I just try to get on with my football. I spoke to my dad and I know he was frustrated that I was not playing more regularly.
"He tries to give me confidence as a dad but when I play for Slovakia it is totally professional and different."