Shay Facey says he cannot wait to pull on an England shirt on home soil when the Young Lions take on Turkey on Wednesday evening.
The Manchester City defender has featured in each of England U19s' past four games – but Wednesday’s match will be the first time he has played in front of home support.
And with Chester’s Swansway Stadium a short trip from where he grew up in south Manchester, Facey said there will be a number of familiar faces in the crowd.
“I’m really looking forward to it. We’ve had quite a few games on the road over the last year so it will be great to play in front of a home crowd,” he said.
England v Turkey
7pm, Wednesday 5 March
Chester Swansway Stadium
Tickets on the gate
Adults £3, Concessions £1
“I’m from Wythenshawe which is not too far from where we’ll be playing – so my mum, my big brother and girlfriend will all be coming along.
“To be from the area and to be playing at home will be great. I’m really looking forward to it.”
Facey is a product of the Manchester City youth system and his club side are competing on multiple fronts – most recently qualifying for the quarter-finals of the inaugural UEFA Youth League with a hard-fought victory against Atletico Madrid.
Now in the part of the season where games come thick and fast Facey, 19, says learning to cope with the demands of such a hectic schedule can only be a positive experience.
“I have played a lot of games recently – this will be my sixth in two weeks,” he added.
“But it’s a good sign. It’s a reflection of how well you are doing at club level and how consistently you can keep on doing well – and I think I’ve done that this year so I’m just happy to have the chance to play for England again.
The U19s prepare for Turkey test
“And obviously to play for England at any age and at any time is an honour.”
Facey began life at as a centre-forward while at school, before moving back.
Equally adept playing on the right or in the middle of a back four or in the middle, the youngster has impressed throughout his youth career – representing England at both U16 and U17 levels.
A naturally gifted defender, he cuts a relaxed figure and appears a natural leader. Pressed on his influences, he looks no further than his club captain - whom he says forms a key part of both his and his team-mates' development.
“At the club we all look up to Vincent Kompany,” he added.
“If you asked me who the best defenders in the world are he has to be right up there. He’s a great leader and an all-round great player.
“He’s comfortable to play with his feet, plays out at the back and he’s fantastic on the ball – he’s definitely someone I look up to.
“He gets involved with the youth team players as well. He’s always offering help and advice and he’s really approachable.
“It’s great to be at the same club, learning off someone like him.”
