LONDON, CMC – Walsall Under-18s center-back Cayden Bennett said he anxiously awaited his international debut after being called up by St Kitts and Nevis for the double-header against San Marino.
Bennett is one of three Walsall players heading off on international duty, with defender Liam Gordon joining up with Guyana in Saudi Arabia and midfielder Brandon Comley linking up with Montserrat.
“I’m excited. It’s a great opportunity for me. I was shocked when it came across, but I am thrilled,” said the England-born player, who qualifies to represent St Kitts through his grandmother.
“I hope just to be myself and do the best job, then hopefully bring what I can back to Walsall.
Described by the West Midlands club as a “strong ball-playing” center-back, Bennett’s ability has placed him in the first-team selection frame in recent months.
In November last year, he was named in the squad for Walsall’s 3-2 defeat to Shrewsbury Town in the English Football League Trophy but was an unused substitute.
Walsall’s professional development phase coach, Ryan Simmonds, said Bennett “thoroughly deserved” the call-up to senior international football.
“It’s amazing, not only for Cayden but for his whole family,” Simmonds said.
“He qualifies from his grandmother, and speaking to Cayden, his grandmother and family are so proud.
“It’s a pleasing moment for us all at the football club; it highlights our talent in the building, and Cayden thoroughly deserved it.”
Bennett praised the coaching staff for their support and his continued development under their care.
“They’ve been very supportive of the opportunity I’ve had, and I’m grateful for them and what they’ve done for me in the past,” he said.
“Giving me different opportunities in different positions and just trying to make me a better player ultimately.”
St Kitts take on San Marino on Wednesday and again on Sunday.
and then 