James is NZ young player of the year

Chris James, 19, is yet to make his first-team debut for Fulham but has impressed for his country in games against Brazil, Charlton and Sevilla. Although he has won over 30 caps at various England Youth levels, James chose to represent the country of his birth and New Zealand manager Ricki Herbert is delighted he pledged his allegiance to the All Whites.

‘He’s a great kid who’s added a spark to the side and it’s great we got him,’ Herbert told the club’s website. ‘Technically he’s very good and he’s got the potential to play at a very good level. Playing at international level will only enhance that.’