George Thorne called up by England

Teenage Albion midfielder George Thorne has been called up to the England under-19 squad - breaking more new ground for the club's academy.

The 17-year-old has become the first graduate from the Hawthorns academy to be summoned by England for under-19 duty.

Thorne has been drafted into the squad for the UEFA Under-19s qualifying tournament in Belgium, where they will play Albania tonight, Cyprus on Sunday and the hosts on Wednesday.

The Kent-born youngster has already helped England win the Victory Shield and Montaigu Tournament at Under-16 level and the 2010 under-17 European Championships.

Academy manager Mark Harrison said: "This is a great reflection of the progress George has made from Under-17s level to Under-19s.

"It indicates he is making the transition from youth-team football to first-team football.

"And it shows how highly those in the England set-up think of him."

Albion goalkeeper Jack Rose is also set for England duty after being named in the under-16 squad to face Wales in their Victory Shield opener at Haverfordwest County AFC next Friday live on Sky Sports (7.35pm).

And winger Kayleden Brown has been called up by Wales under-19s for their UEFA qualifying tournament in South Wales.