Brentford Youth Team goalkeeper Nik Tzanev has been called up by New Zealand’s Under-20 squad for two upcoming friendlies.

The 18-year-old has been named in the squad for friendlies against Uzbekistan to be played on April 4 and April 6.

The teenager was born in Wellington and moved to England in 2006.

He has been first-choice goalkeeper for Brentford’s Youth Team this season, playing 15 games as The Bees have moved clear at the top of the Under-18 Professional Development League Two South.

Nik has also played two games for the Development Squad this term.

He is the latest young Bee to receive international recognition.

Josh Bohui has been part of the England Under-16 group this season, Harry Francis was called to an England Under-15 training camp and Ross McMahon was also called up for a Scotland Under-16 training camp.

Additionally, Kyjuon Marsh-Brown was called up to the Antigua and Barbuda full squad.

Ose Aibangee, Brentford FC Academy Director, said: “Nik has been in great form this season and fully deserves this recognition.

“He has been called up to a squad two years above his age, which gives an indication of how highly he is thought of.

“It is another boost for the Academy and the Club as a whole to get further international recognition for our young players.

“Nik will learn a lot from going away with the New Zealand squad.

“He will train with professionals from other countries and will hopefully get a chance to play in the games.

“I wish him all the best.”

New Zealand will host the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in May and June.

The squad for that tournament will be announced later this season.