Danny Forrest was on cloud nine today after being picked for England under-19s.

City's Keighley-born striker has earned his first international recognition after being included in the squad for next Thursday's friendly against Germany in Spiesen-Elversberg.

Forrest will not miss any league games during the hectic Easter period.

England are allowing Forrest to stay with City for the Bank Holiday Monday game at Gillingham before picking him up straight afterwards. And he will fly back to England on Friday in time for the following day's trip to Preston.

Boss Nicky Law was thrilled by Forrest's call-up. He said: "It doesn't surprise me in the slightest. Danny thoroughly deserved it after the performances he has put in for us this season.

"It's just reward for the 100 per cent effort and commitment he gives in every game."

Forrest, 18, has enjoyed a meteoric rise this season since making his debut against Wrexham in the Worthington Cup in September.

He made a dream start in the league with a goal against Ipswich at Valley Parade on February 1 and has featured in all but one of the games since, scoring three times including a stunning over-head kick against Walsall.

Forrest is seen as one of City's "crown jewels" alongside Simon Francis and Lewis Emanuel. Forrest and Francis, both second-year scholars, have been offered their first professional contracts for next season.