WIDNES Vikings Academy player Billy Glover has been included in the Wales Under 19s training squad, ahead of the upcoming European Championships in Belgrade.

The former Halton Farnworth Hornets youth starred for the Wales Under 16s, who beat England in 2017, and has been rewarded with a place in the forthcoming squad. The training camp takes place on the 26-27 June, with a final 22-man squad for the Championships to be decided shortly after.

Glover says that he is delighted to be recognised for his hard work and is looking forward to testing himself in a new environment.

“It’s a proud moment for me and my family, especially my dad who was pretty keen for me to play for Wales,” he said.

“I’m honoured to play for my country and it’s good that they’ve noticed me again from the Under 16s. It’s going to be a different style of play and a different climate, so it should be good.”

Grant Gore, Vikings Academy Head Coach, is pleased with the progress being made by the young centre - who only signed his first Academy contract at the back end of 2017. Gore believes that if he stays grounded and continues to work hard, he can continue his upward trajectory.

Gore said: “He’s a hard-working centre who has already overcame a couple of injuries so far in his career, so he’s got a lot of perseverance and motivation to come back from those things.

“It’s a real test of character, having to come back from a dislocated elbow at just 15 years old. He’s a lot quicker and stronger now, so it’s a massive achievement for him.

“I think he’s got potential. The improvements that he’s made over the last six to eight months since he’s been in the academy has been massive. He’s willing to learn and work hard, and those things are what’s most important at that age.

“He’s just got to continue with that, not get too far ahead of himself and see where he can go.”

Another Welshman within the Vikings ranks who has had the honour of representing his country is hooker, Lloyd White. The 29-year old made 15 appearances for The Dragons.

He believes that Glover should relish the opportunity presented to him and take it with both hands. In addition, Lloyd commended the Widnes Vikings academy system for producing another high-quality young player.

“Growing up playing any sport, the dream is always to represent your country; it’s always the thing that you’re waiting for,” said White.

“I think his family will be immensely proud and so should he. It’s an amazing opportunity and he’s just got to go and take it with both hands.

“It’s great for the club. It’s no secret that we’ve got a group of really good young players coming through, and hopefully the Vikings can continue to build on that.”