Aberdeen Super Six set for Scotland

2016 Telki Cup – Hungary
Scotland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Serbia
30 July – 3 August 2016

Scot Gemmill has named six Aberdeen players in the Scotland Under-17 squad that will compete in the 2016 Telki Cup in Hungary later this month as his side prepare for their UEFA European Championship qualifiers. This makes Aberdeen the most represented club within the U17 squad. 

Full-time U20 players Seb Ross, Joe MacPherson, Lewis Hutchison and Chris Antoniazzi have all been handed a call-up, whereas Youth Academy members Archie Mair and Dean Campbell are also included in the squad.

Despite being only 15, Mair has been called up to the U17 squad for the first time and will compete with Jon McCracken of Hamilton Academical for the number 1 jersey. Dean Campbell began last season with Aberdeen's U15 squad, however a series of good performances saw him progress to the U17s as well as featuring for the U20's .Front duo Lewis Hutchison and Chris Antoniazzi along with teammates Seb Ross and Joe MacPherson who have also been included in the travelling party after recently becoming members of the full-time playing staff at Pittodrie. Lewis, Seb and Joe signed on after featured for the U17 squad last year, whilst Chris re-signed for the Dons after having a stint at Celtic.

Senior Youth Academy Coach, Scott Anderson had this to say on the lads’ inclusions:

“We are all pleased to see the three boys being included in the upcoming Scotland U17 national squad.  Their involvement at International level can only help with their development as they will be giving the opportunity to play against quality opposition and varying styles of play.

“Lewis Hutchison, Seb Ross and Joe MacPherson have just become full time U20’s players this season and have all started their pre-season very well. 

“Chris Antonaizzi has just returned from Celtic, and like Lewis, has hit the ground running in terms of his training work with the squad and has already illustrated that he is a very exciting young player. 

“Goalkeeper Archie Mair and Dean Campbell have also been called up at the young age of 15. The boys will be playing a year above his own age group, so it is really pleasing for us that his potential has been recognised.  Both hav been involved with the U20’s squad for most of pre-season, travelling to Portugal with the squad and having involvement in all 4 friendly fixtures so far.”

Scotland will kick-off their tournament against Hungary on Saturday, 30th July and we wish Archie, Joe, Seb, Dean, Chris and Lewis the very best of luck.