Scotland call up for Steven

Jan 21 2009 by Kieran West Brook, Dumfries Standard Wednesday

QUEENS’ youth play Steven Black has been called up to the Scotland schools squad as they begin a tour of Europe.

The 16-year-old defender from Gretna has been selected for the squad that will travel to Cyprus and Turkey for training camps.

The boys will then be involved in matches against Ireland, Wales, Northern Ireland and then England, between the start of February and mid April.

Steven has been involved in the Queens’ youth setup since he was 11 years old, and has been brought through the ranks at Palmerston.

Gordon Hyslop, head of youth, said: “It’s a rare thing, and a great achievement for the boy.

“He’s played for Dumfries and Galloway select teams since primary school and should be proud of this achievement.”

Steven is a pupil at Annan Academy and clearly impressed at the Scotland school trials.

Queens youth players Steven Degnan and Adam Dougan also featured in the trial.

Steven heard the good news earlier this month and will begin his time with the Scotland school team at the start of February.