Young Crewe trio are away representing England U-17s

Dario Gradi says the club have some exceptional young players

Three young Crewe starlets are away with England at the FA International U-17 tournament.

Max Clayton, Nick Powell and Ben Garratt have been selected for the tournament featuring youth sides from Australia, Portugal and Turkey.

Clayton and Powell featured in a 2-2 draw with Turkey on Wednesday while Garrett could face Australia on Friday.

"It's a big boost to all the kids in the academy," Crewe boss Dario Gradi told BBC Radio Stoke.

"We know we've got some exceptional kids. They're a target for the big clubs.

"But our best players seem to be content to stay here and if their chances of being picked for England aren't reduced, then that's a good form of encouragement as well," he added.

Striker Clayton has featured for his country before, scoring in the final as England won the Nordic International U-17 Tournament in Finland earlier this month.

Fellow forward Powell has also represented England at youth level and recently made his first-team debut for the Alex, while this represents a first call-up for Garrett.

"The fact we've got outstanding young players is the reason why this club is always vibrant," Gradi said.