GB Taekwondo has named a squad of 16 for the European Championships taking place in Kazan, Russia next month (May 10-13) including three athletes who won gold medals at the last event in 2016.

The Manchester-trained team also features its newest world champion, Scottish teenager Jordyn Smith, winner of the junior title in Tunisia last week.

“In most categories it was one of the easier selections we have had,” said GB performance director Gary Hall. “We have had some outstanding performances in some very strong categories, so it is good when it is like that.

“The likes of Christian McNeish has won five gold medals in a row while Bianca Walkden hasn’t lost for so long.

“These athletes are winning and winning big so it does make selection decisions easier.”

GB Taekwondo claimed four medals in 2016 including golds for double Olympic champion Jade Jones, double world champion Walkden, and Blackwood’s Lauren Williams.

“It is a talented team all with their own goals and objectives,” added Hall.“We are really looking forward to the challenge ahead.”

Alongside the frontline stars will be the likes of 17-year-old Smith (-46kg women), Maddison Moore (-49kg women) and Mason Yarrow (-54kg men).

There’s also an opportunity for Norfolk strongman Jack Spall when he deputises for Rio Olympian Mahama Cho, who is currently on the comeback trail from injury.

“We took Jordyn on the World Class Performance programme a couple of months ago,” said Hall.

“Obviously, we don’t know yet if her junior success will transfer into being as successful as a senior.

“But we believe in giving young athletes a chance and seeing what they have and how they rise to challenge.

“Jordyn and Mason, I am sure, are going to take their opportunities with both hands.

“Cho is sad to miss out because he was having a great season. But he has undergone the right level of treatment and we expect to see him back later in the year.

“However, it’s a great opportunity for young Jack to come in and put down a performance.”