Former Northern Ireland captain Iain Dowie reckons Dion Charles has what it takes to become a key man for the national side.

The forward, who has scored 18 goals in all competitions this season, has been called up for the upcoming European Championship qualifiers against San Marino and Finland.

Dowie has been impressed with Charles’ form at Wanderers and says it is important to select players who are performing at club level.

The 58-year-old told The Belfast Telegraph: “From minute one when Dion came into the Northern Ireland squad I have been impressed by what he brings.

“He is mobile, agile, has energy about him and at Bolton has looked a really good finisher.

“I think he can be a goal threat in the qualifiers. He is exciting for Northern Ireland and has what it takes to be an important player for Michael O’Neill in the campaign.

“Things haven’t always gone his way in his career, but he has persevered and look at him now with his goals pushing Bolton into promotion contention for the Championship.”

He added: “At the start of the qualifiers it is vital for the manager to have players in form at club level and Dion is playing with confidence.”

Conor Bradley and Eoin Toal have also been selected – the latter’s first call-up to the senior side after impressing in League One since breaking into the Bolton side.

It is O’Neill’s first squad since returning to the hot seat following Ian Baraclough’s sacking in October.

Denmark, Kazakhstan and Slovenia have also been drawn in Group H as qualification begins for next summer’s tournament in Germany.

Meanwhile, Wanderers defender Luke Mbete could be in action for England Under-20 against Germany tonight.

The fixture takes place at the Manchester City Academy Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 7.30pm.

Ian Foster’s side also have matches against Spain and France coming up as they prepare for this summer’s Under-20 World Cup, which takes place in Indonesia.

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