News

Young defender named in England squad

Albion under-23s defender Alex Cochrane has been called up to the England under-20 squad for their final games of 2019.

By Alex Stedman • 12 November 2019

By Paul Hazlewood
Alex Cochrane has been called up to the England under-20 squad.

The first match for Keith Downing’s side sees them face Portugal on Thursday 14th November at the Municipal Stadium de Agueda, before the Three Lions return to home soil to host Iceland's U21s on Tuesday 19th November at Wycombe Wanderers’ Adams Park.

Cochrane made his senior Albion debut in the Carabao Cup game against Aston Villa in September, and has also enjoyed an impressive start to the season for Simon Rusk’s under-23 side, making 12 appearances in all competitions and finding the net twice - including the 4-1 win over Southampton at the start of the month.

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U23 highlights: Southampton 1 Albion 4

The full-back, who signed a new two-year deal with the club in the summer, also skippered the Seagulls to their Leasing.com Trophy wins over AFC Wimbledon and Southend United, helping them keep clean sheets in both contests. 

Rusk said, “Alex’s inclusion in the England squad is a reward for his performances so far this season. 

“He has continued to work hard after his new contract in the summer and has been a consistent and important part of the side this term. We wish him all the best for the time he spends away with England and look forward to welcoming him back after the international break.”

Meanwhile, Alexis Mac Allister has been promoted from the Argentinian under-23 side to the senior squad. Lionel Scaloni’s side face Brazil and Uruguay on Friday and Monday respectively. The midfielder’s last inclusion in the national side came in September in a 4-0 win over Mexico. 

Christmas cracker at the Amex!