Western United young guns Jake Najdovski and Dylan Leonard will travel to Indonesia later this month to compete in the ASEAN U-19 Boys Championships with the Young Socceroos.
The group stage draw has placed the Young Socceroos in Group B alongside Myanmar, Vietnam and Laos, the latter being the side’s first opponent on Thursday 18 July.
This selection represents a first opportunity for match minutes and major tournament experience at international level for Najdovski after he received his debut call-up for a training camp in May.
The 19-year-old made six appearances in the Isuzu UTE A-League Men last season and will be hoping his continued development earns him further opportunities in John Aloisi’s side next season.
Leonard will wear the green and gold for the first time in his burgeoning career, with the 16-year-old centre-back shining in the Club’s Senior Academy team after joining from Port Melbourne.
In just his first year at the Club, Leonard quickly caught the eye and signed his first professional contract in June with a debut on the cards this season.
Western United General Manager of Football Mal Impiombato celebrated the milestone achievement for both players.
“This is a special moment for Jake and Dylan and for us as a football club, being that two players that we have nurtured in our Academy pathway have been able to secure an international opportunity,” he said.
“The chance for high-pressure, tournament minutes will give both individuals invaluable experience and potential to develop their games as professionals.
“As a Club we are immensely proud of both young men and look forward to watching their progress, wishing them the very best of luck for the tournament.”
Najdovski and Leonard will be eager to follow in the footsteps of Anthony Didulica, the Western United youngster who helped the Joeys to win the ASEAN U-16 Boys Championships last week, finishing as the competition’s joint top scorer with six goals.
