HEREFORD teenager Jordan James has been called up to play for the Wales men’s senior squad ahead of their UEFA National League games.

The 18-year-old who plays domestically for Birmingham City has been called up for the first time ahead of Wales’ match against Belgium on Thursday and then Poland on Sunday.

Both matches are being played at the Cardiff City Stadium. The games are Wales’ final preparation matches before the World Cup.

James who was born and raised in Hereford has previously played for England at the under-20 age category.

Following the withdrawals of Ben Davies and Joe Allen from the Wales squad James has received a late call-up.

James’ father Tony James is Welsh and a former Hereford United defender meaning his son can play for Wales.

James made his Wales Under-18 debut against England last year and he was named in the country’s under-21 squad four days ago for a friendly against Austria later this month – but has now received a senior squad call.

Wales under-21 manager Matty Jones told the Independent: “A lot of players have dual nationality and are going to get a lot of attention from other nations. It becomes a competition for us.

“Jordan was deflated somewhat with his (England) experience for a number of reasons, and we are delighted he has come back to his brothers with open arms.”