James O'Connor: Tom Bradshaw is an inspiration

The Walsall striker, who has scored nine goals in 20 games this season, earned his first senior call-up to the Wales squad for the friendly against Holland last week.

Despite not featuring in the 3-2 defeat, Bradshaw made a positive impression on boss Chris Coleman who, speaking afterwards, said he expects the forward to make his senior international debut soon.

And O'Connor has nothing but praise for the 23-year-old who joined from Shrewsbury in June 2014.

"Tom earned that call-up," the commanding centre-back said. "I texted him as soon as I heard the news and I said you have earned that for the last 12 to14 months he has been here.

"He deserves it for the things he does day in, day out, to make himself a better player.

"He is an inspiration to his team-mates.

"I was really pleased for him and his family."

The international break also saw talented youngster Rico Henry force his way into the England under-19 squad.

And O'Connor believes the youngster – dubbed the next Ashley Cole – can reach the very top of the game.

"I saw the gaffer said if there is a better left-sided player who is the same age in the country then he would like to see him and I agree with that," he said.

"He has been top drawer and the sky is the limit for him. If he keeps doing the right thing he can go as far as he wants."

Boss Dean Smith was also delighted with how Bradshaw adapted himself while on international duty.

"I spoke to Tom after and he said training was really good," Smith said.

"He banged a few goals in, putting himself up against the likes of Ashley Williams and Joe Ledley and players like that.

"So it gives him a big confidence boost knowing he can handle that sort of football environment and going and training with that sort of player."