Bell doubly proud to play in World Youth Championship
The Ireland midfielder has endured an emotional roller coaster over the last week following the death of his grandmother.
A minute’s silence was observed prior to their friendly defeat to Paraguay on the eve of their departure for the UAE. And as an added touch in bonding Bell with his team-mates, boss Gerry Smith insisted on another quiet moment prior to training yesterday in Al Ain as Josephine Bell was laid to rest back in Britain.
It was a gesture not lost on the well-spoken Rushden and Diamonds playmaker, who could have declared for England, Scotland or Northern Ireland prior to finally agreeing to showcase his burgeoning talent with the Republic, for which whom he qualifies through his father,who was born in Buncrana.
“Yes, it has been hard,” admitted Bell of his decision to travel to the UAE following the bereavement. “But I spoke to my family about it, and, the way my granny was, she would have wanted me to play and certainly to come to a World Cup to represent Ireland.”
Smith, for one, is delighted he has Bell’s talent available.
“David has settled in great,” said Smith. “The lads are all happy with him. We looked at David a lot before we included him in the squad. Brian Kerr and Sean McCaffrey both spoke to me about him, as did Don Givens.
“When I saw him first, I was very, very impressed. He has a good bit of dash and bite about him. We brought him over for the Italy match, and I think that anybody who saw that game would agree that he did very well.
“He scored a goal, has two good feet and is an aggressive type of player who gets at the heart of opposing defences. I think he’s an exciting prospect.”
Smith also has been impressed by Liverpool-based Darren Potter, who, if he overcomes an ankle ligament injury, will partner Bell in Ireland’s engine room.
“I think that Darren Potter will not only be influential in this World Cup for us, but also a main player in the senior squad in time, and David is not far behind him. They are two class acts.”
Smith has played his cards close to his chest regarding possible selection and has yet to even declare who will captain the team.
“It feels great to be here, and I can’t wait for Saturday and the first game against Saudi,” said Bell enthusiastically.
“Hopefully I will start, but there are 20 of us in the squad hoping for the same thing. It will be great to be in the team, but even if I’m not, I will hope to get on at some stage and obviously try to do my best.”
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