SOUTHEND United’s Aiden Shehu has been named in Albania’s under 18 squad.

The midfielder has been with the Shrimpers since the under 15s.

And Blues' youth team coach Danny Heath is pleased Shehu's work-rate has been rewarded.

"We're all so proud of Aiden and the call up," said Heath.

"It's real credit to him because he's incredibly hard working.

"Off the pitch he's humble, polite and respectful but his work-rate even inspires us as coaches."

Shehu will meet up with the Albania squad next week for a training camp.

But Heath knows the youngster will remain eager to improve.

"He demonstrates a professional attitude to want to learn and to want to become better," said Heath.

“Aiden shows good movement to link up the play and to receive the ball from the defensive players to then pass the ball with speed and quality into players that are higher up the pitch.”