NEWPORT County AFC youngster Aaron Collins will fly back to the UK in time to feature for the Exiles this weekend after making his international debut last night.

The 17-year-old started for Wales under-19s in their international friendly match against Germany at the Eintracht Stadion, Nordhorn.

Collins played the first 45 minutes as the UEFA European Under-19 Championship holders ran out 2-0 winners.

This was always going to be a tough test for Wales, particularly in front of a crowd of just under 3,000 people.

Geraint Williams’ young men put in a spirited performance but were unable to stop Germany from taking a 10th-minute lead when Enis Bunjaki scored from the penalty spot.

Germany increased their lead before half-time when Heinz Mörschel pounced on 43 minutes to make it 2-0 from 20-yards.

There were no further goals in the second half with Swansea City goalkeeper Lewis Thomas making three outstanding saves to deny the Germans.

Collins was one of 11 members of the squad to make their under-19 debuts in this match for Wales as Williams looks to increase and develop the pool of players to select from.

As revealed by Argus Sport today, Collins is one of four youngsters to have been offered a professional contract at Rodney Parade for next season – along with Regan Poole, Tom Owen-Evans and Kieran Parselle.

“It’s brilliant for Aaron and great experience for him,” said County youth development coach Mike Flynn.

“Hopefully him, Tom and Kieran will be involved with Regan at York this weekend.

“I’m pleased for them and it’s testament to the hard work they’ve put in.

“It’s no coincidence that they are the four hardest working players in the academy and they deserve to progress.”