Barker backs Adams for Wales spot (From The Argus)

Barker backs Adams for Wales spot

10:30am Saturday 20th October 2012 in Sport By Steve Hollis

Crawley boss Richie Barker believes the form of midfielder Nicky Adams could earn him international recognition.

Adams has been outstanding since joining Reds from Rochdale in the summer and goes into today's game at Hartlepool United with five goals in his last four appearances.

The 26-year-old won seven caps at under-21 level for Wales and Barker has urged national manager Chris Coleman to take a look at the former Leicester City winger ahead of their friendly against Austria in February.

Barker said: “I read The Argus on Monday after the Bury game and it suddenly came into my head that Nicky had played for Wales under-21s and I wondered at what stage the Wales FA would be notified about him.

“For a midfielder to have six goals before the end of October is excellent and I would strongly recommend that someone from the Wales set-up should come and watch him.

“He would probably be the only player from League One in the squad but I don't think that is a problem because a while ago the majority were from this level.

“Even if it were only for a friendly it would be fantastic for Nicky and for the football club to have a full international in our ranks.”

Adams will bid to continue his goalscoring streak against a Hartlepool side struggling near the foot of the table but Barker is not expecting it to be a pushover.

He added: “I dare say people look at the league table and think we should walk it but they are not a bad side. They only got beaten 1-0 at Leyton Orient in midweek and could have drawn the game as they hit the bar so it won't be easy.”