SWINDON Town defender Joe Romanski has been recognised for his on and off-field progress by being named in 'The 11' by League Football Education (LFE).

The initiative recognises the football and academic progress of U18 players on apprenticeships at current or former English Football League (EFL) clubs - and is also designed to assess other factors, including involvement in community or charity-based initiatives.

Among those to previously be named in 'The 11' are England U20 World Cup winners Ademola Lookman, now of Everton, Dael Fry (Middlesbrough), Dominic Calvert-Lewin, also now of Everton and Lewis Cook, formerly of Leeds United and now at Premier League Bournemouth.

Romanski, 18, became the first player born in the 2000s to feature for Swindon Town when he played the full 90 minutes of a 1-0 home defeat to Grimsby Town in April.

He was subsequently a late substitute during a 3-0 win against Sky Bet League Two champions Accrington Stanley on the final day of the season before being offered his first professional contract.

Academically, Romanski has passed his framework and achieved D*D, exceeding his DD target.

LFE regional officer Roger Gibbins said: “Joe is really good guy who has displayed a great work ethic and never causes any problems. I’m delighted he has progressed into the first-team and been given the chance to continue his development at Swindon.”

LFE chief executive Alan Sykes added: “The 11 is directly associated with apprentice reviews that are conducted by our regional officers throughout the season. It is a great way to highlight the achievements and progression of talented young footballers who apply themselves to all aspects of their apprenticeship.”