CITY youngster George Goodman will not be fazed by his call-up for the Euros under-19s finals.
The second-year scholar is in the 20-man squad for host nation Northern Ireland in the tournament, which kicks off today.
The Irish youngsters, who are coached by former West Brom and Ipswich defender Gareth McAuley, play their opening game against Ukraine in Larne at 7pm.
Bantams boss Graham Alexander is backing Goodman to handle the national spotlight – and sees it as a valuable learning curve for his progress in club football.
Alexander said: “We’re well versed about what you have to handle being at Bradford.
“You have to be able to deal with crowds and expectation and all that.
“The more practice you get and exposure you get as a player, you become used to it.
“Whatever that scenario is, the more exposure you get then it becomes the norm.
“I don’t think that will faze George in the slightest because he’s a confident boy.”
City fans got the chance to see Goodman in action when he played the second half of the opening friendly at Chorley.
He made a positive impression on the right side of the back three and looked comfortable in possession.
Under-19s coach Gareth McAuley smiles in training (Image: @NorthernIreland)
Alexander was not surprised – having promoted Goodman to train with the senior squad on several previous occasions.
“George is a really good player and we were really impressed after what he showed us last Saturday.
“He trained with us quite often in the second half of last season.
“We brought him up because physically he can compete and he’s good technically.
“He’s a confident lad so he’s probably become used to stepping in with us now and the other players trust him, which is so important.
“We’re really pleased he’s got this opportunity to represent his country in some big games. We hope it goes great for him.
“He’s getting early game time for us, so he’ll come back in good condition.
“It makes us proud for any of our players to be representing their country, not just for the individual but for the club. It’s a positive all round.”
Goodman trained with the other players at the Blanchflower Stadium in Belfast yesterday.
McAuley said: "The boys look ready, which is pleasing.
"The intensity and the way they applied themselves, and the understanding of what we have been asking of them, was excellent."
Northern Ireland face defending champions on Thursday and Norway in the final group game on Sunday.
The semi-finals take place on Thursday, July 25 with the final three days later.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here