Wanderers are hoping their two latest internationals will be the Reebok stars of tomorrow.

Michael Gillan and Chris Howarth, both members of the Wanderers Academy have been selected for the England under 16s squad for a series of six internationals.

Attacking full back Michael has already appeared in games against Northern Ireland and Spain, while goalkeeper Chris has been included in the squad to face Wales in a Victory Shield match at Wycombe.

Little Lever High School pupil Chris said: "I'm excited, nervous and proud and really a little bit shocked by the call-up but I know it's a great opportunity for me."

The players are members of a 40 strong squad that will be used for the six-match series, each member being guaranteed the chance to appear in a minimum of two games and up to a maximum of four.

And for Academy director Chris Sulley, it is recognition of the work the Academy has done over the last few years.

"We have a manager and a chairman, who have put great faith in bringing young players through the Academy and for us, Chris and Michael's selection has been worth all the hard work in terms of recruitment and coaching.

"It is very exciting and satisfying to see players take things on board and emerge to compete against the best in the country."

Both Michael and Chris are following in the footsteps of the Wanderers Academy's most successful graduate, Kevin Nolan, who at 19 is already a member of the Wanderers first team squad having represented England at under 18 level.