The Brazilian-born Croatia international hopes that the World Cup hosts will think of him favourably after the competition.
Sammir, who faces Brazil in São Paulo today, played for the country of his birth at youth level but committed to Croatia after several years with Dinamo Zagreb.
There has already been a number of headlines about Brazilians who have switched allegiance ahead of the tournament, particularly Spain’s Diego Costa.
Sammir told the press that he is optimistic about the reception he will receive and Croatia’s chances at this World Cup.
He said: “Personally, I hope the people of Brazil will remember me as a good player.
“I started playing football when Croatia stunned the world by reaching the semi-finals of the 1998 World Cup, and I am sure we will have a memorable tournament here, too, because we have quality players defending the top teams in Europe.”
