TOWN youngster Billy Bodin has been placed on standby for the Wales Under 21 squad to face Northern Ireland in seven days’ time.

The 16-year-old was a surprise inclusion among Brian Flynn’s 23-man party and could travel to Belfast on Saturday in preparation for the friendly at the Ballymena Showgrounds should any of the main squad withdraw.

The left midfielder, who is a first-year scholar at the County Ground, has already represented Wales in the Under 17 Victory Shield, and has six caps and one goal to his name at international level.

And Bodin, pictured left, will be hoping to follow in the illustrious footsteps of his father - Swindon legend Paul - who made one appearance for the under 21s before forging a successful career in the senior Welsh team.

Bodin senior, who is now Head of Youth Development at the County Ground, admitted his son’s call-up was a shock, but believes the teenager can benefit from spending time around players who regularly ply their trade in the Championship and League One.

“It was a surprise. I know there’s a get-together for the Under 17s over in Malta at the end of the month, and I was hoping he (Billy) would be involved in that,” said Bodin.

“But the fact that he has been put on standby for the Under 21s is great news for the club and obviously for him personally.

“Perhaps this is the start of the next level for him.

“It’s a massive jump to the under 21s but he’s been doing okay in his first year and it’s a great chance to mix with some more senior players if he gets called up.

“When you see players being selected it adds a bit of gloss to the season, and long may it continue - international honours are something that we push the players to try and achieve.

“As a parent as well you are very proud. I know I was very proud when I first saw him standing there with the national anthem playing.

“But this is the business end now. That was schoolboy stuff - this is where it really matters.”