Two of Norwich City’s under-23 squad have been handed their maiden Northern Ireland Under-21 call-ups.
Jamal Lewis, who has played at left-back and on the left wing for City, and Joe Crowe, a tough tackler capable of playing in central defence or midfield, have both been called up by new U21s boss Ian Baraclough.
The Canaries pair are both included in a 24-man training squad, which will be trimmed to 20 for their country’s opening 2019 European U21 Championship qualifier in Estonia on Thursday, June 8 (7.45pm UK time).
Both have represented Northern Ireland at U19 level previously, with Crowe making 26 appearances for City’s U23s this season and Lewis playing 20 times.
Speaking to IrishFA.com, former Scunthorpe United boss Baraclough said: “For me it is giving people a taste of it but it gives everyone a shake up whoever you are and performing well you can be taken to the next level.
“Wherever they have come from they have a chance, they all are one step away from the senior group. For me I have to impress that on them as Michael O’Neill is looking for fresh talent.”
Lewis and Crowe are both 19 years old and contracted to Norwich until the end of the 2017-18 season, with the club retaining the option of a further year.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here