Wrexham’s high-flying wing-back Jacob Mendy has been called up to play for Gambia in their upcoming African Cup of Nations qualifier.
Gambia will be facing South Sudan on June 14 at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium in Egypt.
Mendy’s inclusion in Gambia’s squad marks his first-ever international call-up which has understandably been met with plenty of praise from Wrexham’s fans and even the club’s co-owner, Rob McElhenney.
Jacob Mendy’s first international call-up
Jacob Mendy’s first call-up to the Gambia squad comes in the wake of a stellar first season at Wrexham after signing in the summer of 2022.
The 26-year-old made 32 appearances in all competitions and scored on four occasions including a vital goal in the Red Dragons’ 3-2 win over title rivals Notts County in April.
Gambia currently sit in third place in Group G in the qualifying stage for the upcoming edition of the African Cup of Nations which will take place in Ivory Coast between January and February 2024.
With two qualifying matches remaining, Gambia are level on six points with second-placed Congo who they’ll be playing in September.
Mendy, who was born in Gambia, moved to Spain with his family at the age of six and went on to have spells with several teams during his youth, most notably a brief stint at Atletico Madrid in 2015.
After relocating to England, Mendy signed for ninth-tier side Redhill in 2017 before climbing up the divisions by signing for Carshalton Athletic, Wealdstone and Boreham Wood.
Rob McElhenney among plaudits for Mendy’s Gambia call-up
The announcement of Mendy’s first international call-up has been met with an outpouring of support from many involved with Wrexham AFC.
Speaking on the club website, manager Phil Parkinson said: “I’m really pleased for Jacob that he’s received his first international call-up. It’s a great honour for him and his family.
“We look forward to seeing him in action later this month in Egypt.”
Wrexham’s co-owner Rob McElhenney echoed the sentiment on Twitter, saying: “Congrats @jacobmendy17!!!!! So well deserved!!!!”
Following the wave of congratulatory messages, Mendy responded by tweeting: “The amount of messages I’ve received the last few days are very overwhelming. Thank you to everyone, really appreciate your support.”
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