The 17-year-old defender Alberts Smits, who is having an impressive rookie season with Jukurit, has been called up to the Latvian national team for the European Cup of Nations tournament taking place next week.

Latvian journalist Ulvis Broze reports on X that Smits will replace Roberts Mamcics in the Latvian defense.

Smits was originally set to join the Latvian U20 team, but Mamcics’ injury opened up a spot in the spotlight.

Smits has made a rocket-like rise this season to become a key player in Jukurit’s defense. The 191-centimeter tall defensive giant has recorded 4+3=7 points in 17 Liiga matches.

LUE MYÖS:

Read more