Fitness instructor Colin Coates is shaping up to face world champions Italy in a friendly in Pisa on Saturday.

Should he get the nod from Northern Ireland manager Nigel Worthington it will complete a remarkable journey for the 23-year-old defender.

The Crusaders skipper can usually be found on international matchdays at Windsor Park, where he holds a block ticket booking.

Now he is set to step off the terraces and make his debut for Nigel Worthington’s men following a string of impressive performances for the Irish Cup winners.

Crusaders manager Stephen Baxter believes Coates and midfielder Martin Donnelly, who has also been named in an inexperienced squad, deserve their chance.

"Colin has been with his since he was 15 and is getting stronger all the time,” he said. "He is very quick over the ground, aggressive in the air and has a very bright future. He can go on and do well if he knuckles down and works hard. He has all the qualities you look for in a good centre-half."

Donnelly, 20, has already caught the eye for Northern Ireland Under-21s after returning home from Sheffield United.

Baxter said: "Martin’s left foot could open a can of peas. He delivers a wonderful ball and is a tremendous talent.

"He oozes a bit of class and I am sure he will flourish in the game. There is interest in him which is not surprising but he recently signed a two-year contract and seems happy with us.

"Martin left Sheffield because he was a bit homesick. We got word he was back and put a comforting arm around him.

"He was impressive last season as was Colin. They are both worthy of a call-up and it caps a good year for us."

Five players from the JJB Premiership are included in the squad — Linfield duo, goalkeeper Alan Mannus and Robert Garrett, as well as Coleraine winger Stephen Carson.