Colchester United U15s full back Harvey Sayer has been called up by England to represent his country, after impressing for the U's this season.
The teenage left back joined in January 2017 after impressing on trial, having caught the club's attention when playing against Col U in a friendly fixture against the U's for Suffolk Schools.
And, after a strong start to the current campaign, he will now join up with England at St George's Park on February 12th for a four day camp, which includes two games against Belgium.
Harvey said: "When my mum told me, I was in utter disbelief and shocked. I was so happy that I had just got a call-up from England. I couldn’t believe it would happen to me in my life – only in my dreams.
“It still hasn’t properly sunk in – it still seems only a dream – I keep looking at the email that was sent to me. It isn’t a dream, this is really going to happen!
“I can’t wait to put on an England shirt and play the best I can for my country.
“I hope to get many more call-ups and many more appearances for England and my dream is to become a professional footballer, and to be in the England squad.
"When I first joined Suffolk Schools I had been released from Norwich City Academy and my confidence was low. Suffolk Schools helped me gain my confidence back, which helped me give the best performance I could.
“They supported me throughout and gave me the opportunity and coached me to believe in myself and become an even better footballer for which I’m truly grateful.”
The U15s have enjoyed an impressive season so far, and have not only drawn with Arsenal in the Premier League Floodlit Cup, they also recorded a resounding victory over Leicester City.
And Academy Manager Jon De Souza is hoping that Harvey's call up is the first of many for the up and coming Academy players.
He said: "The football club are both delighted and proud that Harvey has been called up to represent England. His call up his testament to the hard work put in by all the staff, parents and players within our Academy.
“Although it is only a small step towards the goal of playing for our first team, it is always a fantastic achievement to be called up to represent your country. We wish Harvey all the best, and hope he can demonstrate his potential during his time with England.”