Hatters youngster Nelson earns maiden England U20s call-up

Luton’s teenage midfielder Zack Nelson has earned his first-ever call-up for his country after being named in England’s U20 squad for their upcoming double-header against Turkiye and Romania in September.

The 19-year-old wasn’t originally included in the squad chosen by interim boss Paul Nevin, who was a member of Gareth Southgate's senior staff at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and recent European Championships, but has been added after an injury to Tottenham Hotspur’s Alfie Devine. It continues a hugely promising start to the campaign for the Hatters’ academy graduate who earned his full debut in the 4-1 Championship defeat to Burnley, and then scored a first ever senior goal when netting a marvellous long range strike in the Carabao Cup clash with QPR.

Nelson, who has made four outings for Luton this term, is one of six replacements called up, including Norwich City duo Kellen Fisher and Kaide Gordon, plus Jacob Wright (Manchester City), Louie Marsh (Sheffield United) and Calum Scanlon (Millwall), will now look to play a part when England travel to Istanbul to play Turkiye on Friday before entertaining Romania at Stockport County’s Edgeley Park on following Tuesday (7pm BST).

Nelson has joined Luton’s summer signing Reuell Walters as part of the squad, the ex-Arsenal youngster having represented his country at U18 and U19 level previously. The Hatters’ official X page tweeted: “Another one of our own is ready to represent the #YoungLions. Zack has been called up to the Under-20s Elite League Squad!”