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Tom Lawrence sets sights on place in Wales squad for Euro 2016

CARDIFF, WALES - OCTOBER 13:  Tom Lawrence of Wales during the UEFA EURO 2016 Group B Qualifier match at the Cardiff City Stadium on October 13, 2015 in Ca
Image: Tom Lawrence hopes to keep hold of his Wales squad berth and feature at Euro 2016

Tom Lawrence hopes Chris Coleman's faith in Wales' young players will be enough to secure him a place in their Euro 2016 squad.

Lawrence made an impressive debut off the substitutes bench last month as Wales celebrated Euro 2016 qualification with a 2-0 home victory over Andorra.

The 21-year-old striker, who is on loan at Blackburn from Leicester City, could make his first international start on Friday against the Netherlands in Cardiff, his hopes boosted by the absence of Gareth Bale and Hal Robson-Kanu and doubts over Sam Vokes, who has a groin problem.

"If the manager decides to pick me I'll be ready to put on a shirt and give my all for the team," Lawrence said. "Hopefully I can deliver if I am picked.

"I felt my performance against Andorra was good and players in this squad have shown before they can step in and do well when others are injured.

"Making the squad for France is always in the back of your mind, it would be massive for me and my family. You've just got to perform as well as you can for your club and hopefully you'll be in contention for France."

CARDIFF, WALES - MARCH 05:  Wales player Emyr Huws in action during the International Friendly between Wales and Iceland at Cardiff City stadium on March 5
Image: Emyr Huws is another Wales youngster with a chance of going to France

Lawrence was not the only young player given a chance during the qualifying campaign, with Emyr Huws, Jonathan Williams and George Williams also featuring to further boost his hopes of staying in the squad long-term.

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"The manager has shown he is willing to get the young lads in, even if it's not playing games it's training with the squad," Lawrence said.

"It's always a learning curve for young lads as well but it gives you belief you can make the squad.

"The manager and the lads - people like Ashley Williams, Chris Gunter and Aaron Ramsey - are always there to offer advice and give you a helping hand. You see that close team spirit in the group out on the pitch."

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