BUDDING Newton soccer star Kellie Leyland has been named in the Northern Ireland squad for the forthcoming European Under 19s Women's Soccer Championships in Lithuania.
The 19-year-old centre back earned her selection with a series of fine performances in friendly matches.
She shone against America and Canada and claimed the assist for Northern Ireland's goal in their recent 1-1 draw with England.
Kelly played for England for two years before switching her allegiances to Northern Ireland eight months ago.
Jenny Leyland, Kellie's mum, said: "Kellie is really looking forward to going to Lithuania.
"She has played abroad before when she went to France with the England squad and she is confident of doing well despite the fact that Northern Ireland are in a tough group with Italy, Russia and Lithuania."
Kellie has been playing soccer since she was nine-years-old and she has been accepted for a scholarship in the women's international soccer academy in Durham after completing her GCSEs at Newton High School.
She will take her A Levels in Durham before doing a degree in America.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article