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.
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