'I'm so excited'

New York City FC ace Jack Harrison called up for England Under-21 duty after impressing in the MLS

Joe Miles

Published: 16:46, 1 Oct 2017
Updated: 19:21, 1 Oct 2017

Harrison was selected as the No 1 overall pick in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft

NEW YORK CITY FC winger Jack Harrison has been called up to represent England's Under-21 side.

The 20-year-old shot to prominence during his second season with the MLS side, where he tallied ten goals and six assists.

Harrison spent seven years in the academy ranks at Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty - Contributor

The youngster was rated as the second best player in MLS under the age of 24 in 2016Credit: Getty - Contributor

After a 1-1 draw against Chicago Fire on Saturday, Jack declared his honour and excitement to play for the Three Lions.

He said: “I was thrilled when I found out; I was really speechless when Patrick told me just before the game tonight. It’s an exciting opportunity and one I’m very grateful for.

“I never thought this would happen when I moved out here when I was 14. It’s a special moment and I’m going to cherish it.

“Every year this league is growing and you only have to watch the games to see that it’s getting better and better every year.

“I’m so excited to be travelling over and doing the best I can. It’s an honour to represent my country.”

Aidy Boothroyd's U-21's are set to face Scotland and Andorra in the UEFA Euro U-21 qualifiers next week.

League of issues

Official reason ref awarded farcical pen to Club Brugge after Mings blunder

Aidy Boothroyd has been monitoring the youngster's progress in the MLSCredit: Reuters

Harrison in action against Montreal defender Kyle FisherCredit: AP:Associated Press

New York City FC chief and former Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira insists that the call-up is just a reward for the 20-year-old's terrific run of form throughout the season.

He said: “It’s really good news for Jack, it’s really good news for the football club and of course I’m really pleased for him because he’s improved a lot and he loves the game.

“I 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.

Boss Vieira during the New England Revolution match at Yankee StadiumCredit: Getty - Contributor

“Jack 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.

“I just want him to enjoy it – 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.”