DESEAN Martin is delighted to have been named in the Monserrat squad for the first time ahead of their upcoming international programme.

The midfielder signed first team forms with Tivi just before Christmas and was an unused substitute in last weekend’s 2-1 defeat at league leaders Newcastle Town.

And the Tividale Academy graduate appreciates his development is being recognised with both club and country.

He said “It’s all moved very quickly in the past month or so.

“To sign first team forms with Tividale along with Shaq (Shaquille Leachman-Whittingham) was a great feeling and it was seen as the next stage of our development as football players.

“But to be called up by your country is the pinnacle in the career of any football player, regardless of what age level you’re representing.”

Martin, 17, who arrived back in the UK this morning hopes he will be included in Saturday’s squad when ‘Dale entertain Romulus at The Beeches (K0 15:00).

“It was tough on the team last weekend.

“Obviously I want to be involved in some capacity but Ryan (Winwood) and Mitchell (Botfield) are close to returning.

“I’ll wait and see but either way I hope we can win the game and take another three points.”