City rookie Jon McLaughlin will represent Great Britain in the World Student Games.

The 21-year-old keeper has been picked for the illustrious university competition which will take place in Serbia between June 30 and July 12.

It means McLaughlin will miss the first fortnight of pre-season – but he goes with Stuart McCall’s blessing.

Britain kick off against Mexico on the opening day and are also in the same group as Austria and Ghana. But the round-robin system involving the 16 countries taking part means McLaughlin is likely to play a minimum of six games.

He said: “It’s a very high standard and I’m really looking forward to the chance to play at that level.

“And because there are so many games involved, it will also mean I can hit the ground running for next season with Bradford.”

McLaughlin qualifies to play in Belgrade because he is still studying a sports coaching degree at Leeds Met. He has previously taken part in the British Student Games.

“Although I’m Scottish, it was for England because it’s where the university is based.

“That was quite an honour and this is even bigger.

“They say it’s almost like an under-23 Olympic standard so it’s going to be a great experience. It’s one of the highest-ranked tournaments and every country will take it very seriously.”

McLaughlin, who claimed a clean sheet on his City debut against Chesterfield last month, has already accepted the offer of another year at Valley Parade.

He is again set for a back-up role as McCall scours the loan market for a first choice but is determined to be on his toes when he comes back.

McLaughlin added: “I’m looking at this as a real positive. It’s a chance to sharpen up and be ready to push for a place.

“I know the gaffer is looking for another keeper but you never know what can happen. I want to give myself the best opportunity.”