DREAMS came true for a Herefordshire teenager last night when he made his professional football debut for Birmingham City.

Jordan James, from Hereford, has been chasing the dream of playing professional football since he was young and was introduced to the sport at an early age.

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He is the son of former Hereford United centre-back Tony James and used to watch his dad play at Edgar Street as a youngster.

The 17-year-old has been training with the Birmingham City first team after a two-year scholarship at the club.

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Yesterday (Tuesday) James was called up to the Birmingham first team squad for their Championship match against Bristol City at St Andrews.

With his side winning 3-0 the teenager made his first professional senior appearance coming on as a substitute in the 85th minute.

"It's a dream come true," said James talking to the Birmingham City website.

"It shows that anything is possible for younger kids because I've had my ups and downs.

"To get on the pitch tonight is amazing. There was a bit of nerves but more excitement than nerves.

"Obviously when you're sat on the bench you always want to come on and make that debut.

"The fans were amazing today and seeing them was unbelievable.

"There was no pressure, just to get on there and express myself and show the manager what I can do and hopefully I get that chance again."

James was asked when he received the news that he would be in the first team squad?

"Yesterday after training," James replied.

"I trained with the first team and then the gaffer called me up to his office.

"I didn't have a clue what it was but he told me the news, chose my number and here I am now."