Man Utd academy star James Overy earns first senior call-up to Australia national team
It has been a memorable month for Manchester United academy defender James Overy, who has received his first senior national team call-up with Australia for the November internationals.
The 17-year-old full-back recently returned from the U20 World Cup in Chile, where he was the youngest member of Australia’s squad. After returning to Manchester, Overy joined United’s first team for training sessions, giving him a chance to impress head coach Ruben Amorim and work alongside senior players such as Bruno Fernandes and Luke Shaw.
Although Overy has yet to make his senior debut for United, Amorim handed debuts to three academy players last season, suggesting the youngster could soon follow. Reports from within the club indicate that Overy’s performances and attitude have impressed both coaching staff and teammates.
“James has gone from being Australia’s youngest U20 player to receiving a senior call-up — a huge step in his development,” said one report.
Australia manager Tony Popovic has included Overy among 11 new faces in his latest squad, as he looks to test emerging talent ahead of key fixtures. The squad includes six uncapped players who may feature in upcoming friendlies against Venezuela in Houston on 14 November and Colombia in New York shortly after.
About James Overy
- Age: 17
- Position: Full-back
- Club: Manchester United Academy
- National teams: Represented both Australia and Scotland at youth levels
Author’s summary: Rapidly rising defender James Overy earns his first senior Australia call-up after impressing in Manchester United’s first-team training and U20 international duty.