Manchester United youngster Dylan Levitt must follow the example of Chelsea's Ethan Ampadu by both going out on loan and taking his opportunity on the international stage.
That is the verdict of fellow countryman Nathan Blake, who has talked up the Wales international, once again called up to the Welsh squad by United great Ryan Giggs this week.
Blake, a former Wales star himself, believes a loan exit from Old Trafford is the next logical step in Levitt's development. MEN Sport understands the club are considering a loan for the 19-year-old, with League One the most likely destination.
Levitt has played just once for United's first team though has been called into the past three Wales squads by Giggs.
"Ethan Ampadu has shown you don't have to be playing first team football to come and give a good account of yourself at international level," former Wolves and Wales striker Blake told MEN Sport.
"If they're good enough, they'll be fine. It's a big step up, don't get me wrong, but the upcoming friendly matches are a good opportunity for Ryan to get to make a decision on the young lad."
Blake then urged Levitt to look for regular game-time further down the footballing pyramid to truly prove himself.
He added: "The way United are going and the money they've spent, especially in that midfield area, he's going to have to be some player to get in.
"If he's not in, I'd say most definitely get out on loan to League One or Championship level. It's about playing 90 minutes twice or three times a week. He needs to get out and get the games in his legs so he's able to play well for the entirety of a season.
"Every young player I've ever known has got into the first team and then taken a dip. So it's about what they do afterwards.
International football is a bit of a false economy because you're going to be so hyped that you do well, and it's only one or two games at a time. Seasons aren't won or lost in a game or two, you've got to have that endurance and strength. Once your body can take 50 games per season, you're in the right place."
