Man City U18 coach Wilkinson: Lewis big inspiration for youngsters

Manchester City U18 coach Ben Wilkinson is delighted for Rico Lewis over his England debut.

Wilkinson says the fullback is a great role model for City's academy players.

The fact he was playing in the Under-18s 18 months ago and has now made his senior debut is unbelievable," said Wilkinson to the club's website.

I think it can be hard for our players sometimes to think they can get in the first team or the level of the first team and the demands that are placed on them.

So seeing someone like Rico on top of Phil [Foden] and Cole [Palmer] should give the boys real inspiration and motivation that if they work to their maximum, have the right attitude, believe in their ability and back themselves if and when they get their opportunity they're ready to take it.

We're seeing real positive signs of that, obviously those three were in the England squad but there's many more out there at the minute - James Trafford, Taylor Harwood-Bellis, James McAtee, Tommy Doyle who are all on a similar trajectory doing great things for their age.

So hopefully the boys see the pathway is there and it's as good as it's ever been.

I think that puts everyone in a really good place to try and get better again this season."