Southend United youngster Harry Crawford has been called-up to represent the Republic of Ireland under 18 squad today.

Crawford, 18, has made five first team appearances for the Blues this season including an impressive performance at Oldham Athletic last Saturday.

The youngster came off the bench to set-up Jean-Yves M'Voto's second half equaliser in the 2-2 draw.

And now the youngster is set to travel to Macedonia next month to take part in a friendly fixture.

With the match taking place on 11th May, Crawford was due to travel the day of Blues final match of the season against Southampton.

However, the Irish Football Association has given Crawford special permission to travel after that fixture so he can be involved with the first team.

Meanwhile, defender Kane Ferdinand has also been placed on standby for the fixture.