Tuesday 8 January 2013 19:23, UK
Northampton teenager Dean Snedker has been invited to an England training squad for young goalkeepers.
FA coaches Martin Thomas and Simon Smith will put several of the country's promising, young keepers through their paces at St George's Park in Burton later this week. Snedker, only just 18, will attend the National Football Centre alongside the likes of John Sutherland (Manchester United), Angus Gunn (Manchester City) Alex Palmer (West Brom) and Luke Coddington (Middlesbrough). "This is a terrific opportunity for Dean," said Northampton boss Aidy Boothroyd. "He is only 18 but there are not too many 18-year-old keepers who have played first-team football and this call up shows the progress he is making - being recognised at the highest level of the game. "Northampton Town have a fine tradition of producing good goalkeepers with the best recent example being Mark Bunn who has been playing regularly in the Premier League. "The call up is also a massive pat on the back to our academy, who are producing a number of exciting young players who could have very bright futures ahead of them. "It also sends out a message to local youngsters that Northampton Town and our excellent academy is the best place to develop your skills and experience. "We hope Dean enjoys the training camp and it will be a wonderful experience for him." Snedker has made three appearances for the Cobblers this season. Starting the Capital One Cup victory over Cardiff and the defeat to Wolves in the same competition, and coming on as a substitute in a Johnstone's Paint Trophy win over Colchester.