England U18 boss Martin Hunter has agreed to allow Dean Bowditch to miss the friendly with Belgium at Northampton next week. Town asked if the 17-year-old could be excused as he is currently one of the Blues' first choice strikers.

Manager Joe Royle told the club site: "I have just been in contact with Martin Hunter and as Dean is playing first team football and we have a busy schedule, he has agreed not to play him next week."

Bowditch was on standby for the England U19s game with Germany next week but will not be considered for that match either.

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