Jack Harrison has been called up to the England U-21 National Team.
The New York City FC winger has earned international recognition for the first time following a scintillating Sophomore season which has seen him register ten goals and six assists, playing an instrumental role in helping the Boys in Blue to the MLS Playoffs.
Aidy Boothroydās England U-21s face Scotland and Andorra in UEFA Euro U-21 qualifiers next week.
Speaking after Saturdayās 1-1 draw with Chicago Fire, Jack revealed his delight at the news to NYCFC.com and said that he canāt wait for this opportunity to pull on the shirt bearing the famous Three Lions.
READ:Five Things We Learned from NYCFC 1-1 Chicago Fire
Harrison said: āI was thrilled when I found out; I was really speechless when Patrick told me just before the game tonight. Itās an exciting opportunity and one Iām very grateful for.
āI never thought this would happen when I moved out here when I was 14. Itās a special moment and Iām going to cherish it.
āEvery year this league is growing and you only have to watch the games to see that itās getting better and better every year.
āIām so excited to be traveling over and doing the best I can. Itās an honor to represent my country.ā
Head Coach Patrick Vieira thinks that Jackās call-up is just reward for Harrisonās excellent form throughout the season as the Frenchman has long-believed that NYCFCās no.11 has the character and quality to earn this opportunity on the international stage.
Vieira said: āItās really good news for Jack, itās really good news for the football club and of course Iām really pleased for him because heās improved a lot and he loves the game.
āI think it just shows how the league can be challenging for players and that it can be the right place for players to come to develop their talents.
āJack going to play for England U-21s will send a message to the players that the league is good enough to get to the international level.
āI just want him to enjoy it ā it will be a great, positive experience to be surrounded by players who play in the Premier League and I just want him to show how good he is because if the manager called him, it means he deserves it.ā
READ:Match Recap ā NYCFC 1-1 Chicago Fire
England U-21s face Scotland at Middlebroughās Riverside Stadium on Friday October 6, before travelling to play Andorra on Tuesday October 10.
Everyone at New York City FC would like to congratulate Jack on this deserved achievement and wish him all of the best for what we hope will be the first of many call-ups.
Weāll keep you up to date on how Jack performs right here on NYCFC.com.