ALBION duo Lateef Alliyu and James Hurst (pictured below) have been called up by England Under-16s for their Victory Shield clash with Wales on Friday, November 2 (ko 7.45pm).

The two 15-year-olds have impressed for Baggies Under-18s and reserves this season and they will now get the chance to showcase their talents in the international at AFC Telford.

The game will be screened live on Sky Sports 1 and Hawthorns Academy director Dan Ashworth insists it is a big boost for the club.

"It's great for us and makes all the long evenings worthwhile," he said.

"A lot of hard work has gone into getting these players where they are, from recruitment to the coaching and welfare of these players.

"They've still got a long way to go to fulfil their goal of playing in our first-team but it's nice to get recognition nationally.

"Our Under-16s are a group we think are a really strong squad.

"It's nice that England have picked out a couple of individuals and England have also had a look at three or four of our other players they are seriously considering.

"Lateef and James are still only Under-16s but it points to a positive future and they will both be up for first-year scholarships in July 2008."

Right-back or right-midfielder Hurst, who is from Sutton Coldfield, joined the Baggies as a ten-year-old.

Alliyu made a name for himself with a wonder-goal in Albion's 1-0 pre-season win at Stafford Rangers (as featured on Albion TV, click here to subscribe).

The striker joined from Heelands Rangers just over a year ago and dazzled in a week-long trial - scoring five goals in three games at Under-15s and Under-16s level against Blackburn, Liverpool and Manchester City, including a hat-trick against City.

Ashworth added: "James is attack-minded and technically very good with both feet.

"He's progressing really well and it's a well-earned call-up because he's working hard.

"Lateef is a centre-forward and has played regularly in the Under-18s and reserves.

"He scored that great goal at Stafford Rangers in pre-season that everyone was talking about.

"And he's made a real impact in the year he's been here."

PIC (TOP): ENGLAND CALLING...Alliyu in pre-season action

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