Doncaster Rovers youngster scores first international goal as he continues bright start to the campaign

Doncaster Rovers youngster Bayley McCann continued his impressive start to the season by scoring for Northern Ireland Under-21s in their emphatic 4-0 win over Malta.

McCann, who has made seven appearances across all competitions for Rovers this season, made his fifth appearance for Northern Ireland at Under-21 level over the weekend, and was significantly handed his first start by manager Tommy Wright.

He played out on the wing as he has done for Rovers throughout the season so far and marked the occasion with a goal. McCann's looping delivery crossed the line by inches at the back post as Simpson stooped to head the ball into the net.

It was McCann’s first goal for Northern Ireland at Under-21 level as he made strides towards following in his dad Grant’s footsteps and making it into the senior team.

Bayley McCann has enjoyed a strong start to life in the Football League with Rovers, registering an assist in the 2-2 draw with Stevenage and the 3-2 defeat against Plymouth Argyle.

McCann is the second Rovers player to score during this international break after Sean Grehan headed home for Republic of Ireland Under-21s during their 2-0 victory over Slovakia. That win saw Leon Ayinde pick up his third Under-21 cap from the subs bench.

However, there was no appearance for Darren Robinson, who missed the win over Malta due to suspension. Meanwhile, Tommy Simkin didn’t make it onto the bench during England Under-21s 4-2 win over Kazakhstan with James Beadle starting and Tommy Setford making the bench.