MORTON youth striker Aidan Duffy has been named in the SFA’s South/West regional performance squad at Under-13 level.

Forward Duffy will link up with boys from the likes of Celtic, Rangers and St Mirren for trials at Toryglen with a view to earning a place in the final Scotland squad.

And thrilled head of youth Derek Anderson says the 13-year-old, who has hit 42 goals so far this term, more than merits the recognition.

Anderson told the Tele: “We recently received confirmation from the SFA that Aidan has been invited to attend the 2002 Scotland trials in April, May and June.

“I’m absolutely delighted for the boy. He’s local, a Morton fan, and he’s been working really hard and banging in the goals for fun this season.

“Aidan’s a left-footed striker who’s quick, strong, and an excellent finisher. Anything over the top and he buries it.

“And he’s improving all the time.

“His link-up play is an area of his game we identified as an area he needed to work on and that’s been getting better as well.

“He never misses training, he’s there all the time, and he’s reaping the rewards — so long may it continue.

“It just shows you, you don’t have to be playing with Celtic or Rangers, or a Premier League club’s youth set-up, to receive international recognition.

“It’s good for our coaches too and I want to give a big congratulations to David Garrett, Paddy McAlees and Gordon Miller for all the good work they’re putting in.” Lead coach Garrett added: “Aidan has been instrumental for us and notched the 42nd goal of a remarkable season at the weekend.

“This form has been rewarded in being chosen to attend trials to play for Scotland Under-13s.

“The whole team are very pleased for him and congratulate him. Very well done, Aidan!”