Colchester United boss Danny Cowley has admitted he’s shocked by one of the U’s standout players being snubbed by his national side.
Cowley’s side are battling for a spot in the play-offs and are a point off 7th place Crewe Alexandra. They are currently on a fantastic run of four straight wins and will be hoping to ride this momentum into the end of the season.
Speaking ahead of their game this weekend against Fleetwood Town, Cowley admitted he’s shocked one of his players didn’t receive a senior international call-up.
Colchester United man misses out on call-up
Cowley was asked by the media about the decision by Northern Ireland manager, Michael O’Neil, not to pick Jamie McDonnell for the senior side:
“I’ve watched him all season and I understand it’s League Two but he’ll play at least the Championship if not above that.
“I’ve lived the Championship, I know exactly what it looks like and he could play in the Championship today, no doubt.
“Northern Ireland must have some really, really good central midfielders if he’s not in the senior squad.”
The decision by O’Neil means McDonnell will have to wait for his first senior cap. Instead, he’ll play for the under-21s in friendlies against Ukraine, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan.
How has McDonnell played this season?
Since joining on loan from Premier League side Nottingham Forest, McDonnell has really caught the eye playing for Colchester United.
The 21-year-old has received an average Sofascore rating of 7.09 for his 27 League Two appearances. That rating is the third highest in the Colchester United squad.
McDonnell, who plays as a defensive midfielder, has caught the eye with his defensive play. He’s averaged 4.1 tackles per game, which is the highest in the team.
The young midfielder has also averaged 4.9 balls recovered, 0.9 interceptions per game, and 4.1 clearances per game.
One issue McDonnell has faced is his disciplinary record. With 10 yellow cards, he’s top of the Colchester United yellow card list and will miss this weekend’s game against Fleetwood Town.
Will McDonnell get his senior call-up?
McDonnell’s got time on his side aged 21. If he can keep progressing as he is, it’s only a matter of time before he gets his first senior call-up.
One big factor for McDonnell will be where he’s playing next season. As Cowley said, the midfielder should be playing in the Championship soon. A loan or permanent move to a Championship side allows him to prove himself against higher-quality players.
Even a move to a League One club next season should allow McDonnell to continue developing nicely.
While some eyes might be on McDonnell’s next move and international future, he’ll likely be keen to stay in the here and now, making sure Colchester United finish in the play-offs this season.