BURY FC youth team player Vassos Theophanous caught the eye when he had trials for the Cyprus Under-21 set-up.

The strapping 18-year-old midfielder has been told he will definitely be included in future international get-togethers later in the year.

Vassos turned out in a specially arranged friendly against Cypriot Division One side Digenis Morphou and impressed the Cypriot coaching staff in a 3-0 victory.

"They all remarked on how mature he was for an 18-year-old," said his father George who also made the trip.

"He played in a deep-lying midfield role that he favours, protecting the defence.

"It was a very encouraging performance and he was told he will be joining up with the Under-21 squad later in the year."

Vassos also got a shock when he made the back pages of the English language newspaper Cyprus Mail in his homeland.

On the same page as an article on one of his heroes David Beckham, the Mail ran a story about the Manchester-based youngster and his international debut.

But it's back to the bread and butter of youth team football next week when the second year scholar will be lining up against Chester City.

"Vas was told to carry on as he has been at Bury and stay focused," added George.

"The coaching staff have said they will be monitoring his progress with interest."