Interim Cymru head coach Jon Grey praised the talent in the Genero Adran Leagues upon announcing his squad for this month’s friendly against the Republic of Ireland.
Included in the squad for the first time is 17-year-old Olivia Francis, who only last season was playing in the Genero Adran Premier for Pontypridd United.
The teenager scored 11 goals in 20 league appearances for the Dragons and capped an impressive breakthrough campaign by winning the Genero Adran Premier Young Player of the Season award.
She secured a move to Women’s Super League side Manchester United last summer, making a first appearance in a competitive matchday squad when the Red Devils travelled to Southampton in the Adobe Women’s FA Cup last weekend.
It has certainly been a rapid rise for Francis, who only made her Cymru WU19 debut last season after previously captaining the WU17 side.
“If you’re good enough, whatever level you’re playing at, you’ll find your way in this game,” Grey said.
“There are players who are good enough in the Adran Leagues to make those steps to the first team, and once they get an opportunity, it’s about showcasing themselves week in and week out and working their way up. There’s definitely talented players out there across the leagues.
“We’re delighted with how Liv has been in the U19 camps and it’s a really good opportunity for her to come in and showcase herself to the other players and for us as a coaching staff.”
