Academy scholars Jay Foulston and Lewis Collins were called up to the Wales U19 squad, following impressive seasons respectively. Our Academy Press Officer, Will Pritchard, caught up with the lads to find out more about their experiences in Zagreb.
Jay Foulston, was selected in the starting line-up for both games against Croatia in Zagreb. When quizzed about how he felt when he received the call-up, Jay said: “It was an amazing feeling when I got the call up for Wales, and an honour for me to represent my country for the U19s.
The defender – who is the third youngest player to ever play County, aged 16 and 255 days, went on to say: “I've always wanted to represent my country and what a feeling it was to do it.”
When asked about the challenge that Croatia presented, Jay explained: “Playing against Croatia was a massive test, it's good to see how they play at the top level; It was good challenge that I really enjoyed.”
Wales lost both games against Croatia, 3-0 and 2-1 respectively. Despite this, Jay stated: “What I learnt from the experience is that it’s a set-up I want to be involved in as much as I possibly can because I really enjoyed the experience and learnt a lot from it.
Personally, I am hoping to achieve a place in the next squad and hopefully get another start to continue showing what I can do and push on as much as I can.”
16-year-old forward Lewis Collins also appeared twice during the week, starting the first game and coming off the bench in the second match. When Lewis was asked about how he felt after receiving the call-up, he said: “I was overjoyed when I received my call up, as it allowed me to represent my country once again, which is always a huge honour.”
Collins went on to talk about facing Croatia: “Playing against Croatia was a huge challenge as they had very talented players playing for them and were very good as a team together, but the experience of playing against top players only helps me develop as a player.”
The forward has appeared once for the first-team, starting in the Checkatrade Trophy against Cheltenham Town, and when questioned about the experience he gained, Collins stated: “This experience has allowed me to see what the higher level of football has to offer.
“I got to see the ability that will be contending at the top level to make a career in the game, which will only help me in the future.
Finally, Collins went on to talk about his hopes for the future: “I am hoping to get my call up for the Slovakia Cup in May for the U19s, hoping to once again represent my country.
“It’s always an honour and a joy to walk out on the pitch in that welsh shirt; after my previous games for Wales I’m optimistic that I have proved I deserve a place in the team, but I can only hope that the coaches and staff have faith in me and my ability.”
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Photos by SportNews.hr.