Thomas Meunier played three times for Belgium at this summer's World Cup, the last assignment of Rudi Garcia's spell as head coach before Mark van Bommel took over.
The Dutchman has since left the 35-year-old right-back out of his first squad, a decision Meunier said did not catch him off guard, telling Voetbal Primeur: "I spoke to the coach two or three weeks ago. He had warned me in advance, so I wasn't surprised when I saw the squad."
Meunier, who joined Sunderland as a free agent over the summer and has started well on Wearside, admitted the omission still stings, even as he tries to keep his focus on his club form.
"Even though it's disappointing, because I really enjoy being with my team-mates from the Red Devils, I have to be pragmatic. Sunderland is Sunderland, and the national team is the national team."
Van Bommel himself has said the door remains open, telling Voetbal Primeur that Meunier's response to being left out impressed him.
"I didn't tell him it was over, but at the moment I'm counting on other players. That's a simple explanation. Meunier didn't agree with it. He said: 'I'll still become an important player.'"
Meunier has won 83 caps for Belgium since his 2013 debut, scoring ten goals, and has represented his country at three World Cups. Belgium face Italy, France and Turkey in the Nations League during this international break.