Good afternoon everybody and welcome back to Carrow Road for today's match against Oldham Athletic.

In my last programme notes I reported that Phil Roberts had received his first international call-up for Republic of Ireland under-16s. This involved Phil travelling to Dublin to take part in two friendly international matches against the Czech Republic last week.

I was unable to travel to Dublin to watch Phil but I have since spoken to his coach and reports I have received are very encouraging. Phil started the first match in his usual centre forward role and caused the Czech Republic a few problems with his ability on the ball.

Phil won his team a penalty from which they scored and also scored his team's second goal as they went on to win the game.

With such a large squad involved and with other players in Phil's position being involved in the squad for the first time, changes were made to the team for the second game. Phil started this match on the bench and came on for the final 10 minutes.

Staff at the Republic of Ireland have been very complimentary of Phil's performances and behaviour during his time with their under-16 squad and he can be very proud of what he has achieved to date.

However, Phil must now work hard in training and matches at the Academy in order to give himself an opportunity to earn further international recognition and, more importantly for us, look to cement a place in our under-18 squad and impress the staff here in order to be offered a scholarship at the Club to begin next season.

Phil undoubtedly has the talent, but it is important that he applies himself in the correct manner in order to fulfil his potential and go on to have a successful career in the game.

On behalf of all at the Academy I would like to congratulate Phil on his recent achievements and hope he receives further international recognition for the Republic of Ireland again in the near future.

Enjoy the game.

Ricky Martin
Academy Manager