Walters Called Up

Last updated : 16 October 2003 By Mark Heys
Bolton Wanderers striker Jonathan Walters has been named in the Republic of Ireland U20 team in an 18-man squad to take on Italy in a friendly match which will take place on the 29th October.

The 20-year old, fresh from scoring twice against Switzerland in his debut for the U21 team last week was called up by the Eire manager Gerry Smith as they look at ways to prepare for the World Youth Championships which are to be held in the United Arab Emirates next month.

Birkenhead born Walters chose to represent the Irish earlier on in the year as he qualifies through the parentage rule and so far he has earned high praise from all quarters including that of Don Givens, the Eire U21 manager who was impressed with last weeks debut performance.