RISING Barrow AFC star Jordan Williams has earned a first call-up for England C.

The 23-year-old has been named in a 16-man squad to face Slovakia Under-21s at Sutton on June 5.

Williams has made an impressive impact at Holker Street since signing from Evostik Division One North side Northwich Victoria at the end of December.

He was an ever-present in the Barrow side in the National League after his signing – making 19 starts and one substitute appearance and scoring five goals, as well as setting up numerous others.

His threat from set-pieces and his long throw-ins provided another attacking option for boss Paul Cox, who this week brought in one of his former Northwich team-mates in the shape of Richie Bennett.

Barrow owner Paul Casson hailed Williams' selection, and said: “He's come a very long way in a short period of time.

“Given a proper pre-season and an injury-free season, he has the makings of a special player.”