Manager Paul Jewell believes the choice of his players for representative teams is a tribute to Bradford City's successful season.

Last week midfield player Gareth Whalley was in the Republic of Ireland squad for the European Championship qualifier in Yugoslavia.

Tonight defender Andrew O'Brien and record signing, striker Isaiah Rankin, who cost City £1.3 million from Arsenal, are in Italy as part of the Football League Under-21 squad for their match against a Serie B select. O'Brien starts the game, while Rankin has been named among the substitutes.

Jewell said: "First and foremost it is an honour for the players, but it is also a tribute to the other players who are at the club.

"You don't get picked unless you are in a good side, so it is down to the other players as well.

"I thought Andrew O'Brien had his best game of the season at Huddersfield on Saturday. He has not been at his best this term, but sometimes that happens in a young player. We tend to forget he is still only 19. I think he will be a fine player.

"He seems to suffer from a lack of confidence, but hopefully the performance at Huddersfield will put him in good stead, although there will be a lot of competition in the defensive positions when everyone is fit.

"He works hard because he wants to do well, but he needs to take it a bit easier at times and learn to relax.

"Isaiah has got a long way to go yet, but he is new to first team football, and it will be a while before we see the best of him.

"It has been a big step up for him from reserve team football and he will be a better player with a full season under his belt in the First Division."

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