Two Preston footballers will represent England at this year’s partially sighted 5-a-side world cup.
The competition in Belarus gets underway in November and England captain Steve Daley believes the preparation and belief of the players gives them a real chance of success ahead of the tournament.
The National squad, who are based at the FA’s Lilleshall training camp, have been preparing with the use of specialist sports scientists and various fitness work.
Daley, originally from Belfast, became partially sighted at the age of 14 due to a genetic condition, before taking on his current role as Sports Development Manager at Preston City Council.
He said: “When the England set up came in for the partially sighted, I got involved with it straight away. From that I progressed and was selected for the England squad. I could have chosen to play for Ireland, but I went for England and I’ve played for the last 15 years.
“I’m the oldest player we’ve got at the moment. There are a lot of young lads coming through now which is really positive for us ahead of the World Cup.
England will train until November with a group of 16 players before announcing a squad of just ten to take to the finals in Belarus, including two fully sighted goalkeepers.
One of the contenders, Tom Bailey, the Activities and Participation officer at the University of Central Lancashire spoke of how the team had some fantastic players.
He said: “There’s some really, really skilled lads in line to represent the team in Belarus.
“A lot of them play against fully sighted players in local leagues and are more than able to compete.”
When asked about the chance of success at the world cup, Bailey added: “I really don’t see why we can’t win it. They came third at the last World Cup so why not?”
The former UCLAN student, who has played in goal for various Sunday league sides as well as at semi-professional level said how he was hopeful of a place on the plane to Belarus.
He said: “I’m desperate to go. I just hope I get that call and I’m at least one of the two goalkeepers they take.”
Kirkland leaves Wigan Athletic with heavy heart
(Wed 23/05)
Blackburn Rovers target Ki focused on Celtic
(Wed 23/05)
Post a comment