NEWPORT teenager Luc Noble is aiming to extend his stay at Bristol Rovers after captaining Wales under-16s during their Victory Shield campaign.
Wales, who had won the tournament in 2014-2015 and 2016-2017, finished in third place in Belfast after draws against Scotland and eventual winners the Republic of Ireland and a 1-0 defeat against the hosts.
But it was a great experience for skipper Noble, who hails from the Gaer area of Newport and started playing for Gaer FC when he was just six years old.
Good week away with Wales. Good to lead the boys out for the 3 games.& also a well done to staff and players for their efforts.⚽️ @FAWTrust pic.twitter.com/908ffGnReK
— Luc Noble (@LucNoble6) October 28, 2017
“It’s something that I dreamed about as a kid,” said the teenage centre-back after leading Wales into the Victory Shield.
“I never thought I’d play for Wales but to put that number four shirt on and walk out, sing the national anthem and see all my family was a really proud moment for me.”
⚽️ GOAL
— FAW Trust (@FAWTrust) October 26, 2017
🔴 @LucNoble6 puts @FAWales U16 2-1 up against @FAIreland in the 2017 #VictoryShield #TogetherStronger pic.twitter.com/UExJcKaWiu
Noble, who scored his first international goal against Ireland in Belfast, will next hope to help Wales qualify for the UEFA European Under-17 Championships.
But his immediate aim is to earn a scholarship at Bristol Rovers, with a decision on his future set to be made next month.
“Luc has been at Rovers for four years now, having been scouted playing for Newport Schools,” explained proud mother Tracey.
“He loves it over there and he’s captain of their under-16s team so we are hoping that he gets another two years.
“The decision is in December so it is a nail-biting time for all of us but Luc is very positive after a great experience with Wales under-16s.”
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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