A family affair for Dragons ace Pejic

By Mark Currie, Daily Post

15/10/02

DEFENDER Shaun Pejic won't be short of support in Cardiff this evening when he swaps the red shirt of Wrexham for that of the Wales under-21s, who face Italy at Ninian Park.

His parents, grandparents, brother Craig and uncle Mike - a former England player - will be in the stands to see the 19-year make his second international appearance following an impressive debut in Finland last month.

The new-look squad brought together by coach Jimmy Shoulder failed to halt a long and depressing series of defeats in Vallkeakoski, where they conceded two late goals to lose 2-1.

Pejic was arguably the best defender on show and he knows it won't be any easier this evening.

But the teenager, whose father Mel is Wrexham's physiotherapist, is looking forward to the game.

"It should be another good experience and, while I don't know yet if I'll be playing, if I'm selected I'll be giving it my best shot," he said.

"I should imagine the Italians will be a very different proposition to the Finns, but obviously, we don't know what sort of team they will be putting out.

"We'll watch a few videos of them to find out a bit about them, but it's going to be a much bigger game and I'm looking forward to the challenge.

"Being with Wales gives me the opportunity to improve myself as a player which, hopefully, not only benefits me but helps Wrexham as well."

Racecourse boss Denis Smith and chief scout Brian Prandle are also hoping to be at the game, which comes only 48 hours after the squad assembled in Cardiff following the weekend's domestic games.

Club commitments and the reduction of the international call-up regulation to four days has left little time for preparation but Pejic is taking everything in his stride.

"It's a big step up and everything is done to make you feel an important part of what's going on," he added.

His proud father said: "It's a great experience for a lad of 19 and I'm sure he will learn a lot from these sort of games. I'm made up for him because he's worked hard."