Young winger Jake nets for under-17s
Huddersfield Town Academy scholar Jake Charles scored his first goal for the Wales under-17 side on Wednesday evening as they overpowered visitors Lichtenstein in an international friendly match at Carmarthen.
The Welsh youngsters ran out as 4-0 winners on the night, with winger Jake netting his first goal at that level in only his second cap to put his side two goals up inside 12 minutes – firing past the visiting goalkeeper from a tight angle.
Charles’ previous appearance for Wales under-17s came back in May 2011, during another international friendly against Sweden.
He could receive his next call-up far sooner, with the Welsh scheduled to play in three UEFA European Under-17 Championship qualifying matches during October against Northern Ireland, England and Estonia. Should Wales qualify, those Championships will be held in Slovakia in May 2013.
Academy Manager Mark Lillis, along with Professional Development Coaches Frankie Bunn and Tony Carss, made the 400 mile round trip to watch Jake in action and commented:
“I know the Welsh Manager, Geraint Williams – he is a former teammate at Derby County – and I think he was impressed with what he saw from Jake.
“It was a very proud moment for all three of us in Wales last night. This was the first time I’ve seen one of my players feature for their country since I returned to Huddersfield as Academy Manager and I hope that plenty more are set to follow in Jake’s footsteps.”
You can help Town bring through the next generation of home-grown players by joining the Blue & White Foundation today – click HERE for more info!
