Newport teenager Matt Cutler is one step away from an England call-up as he prepares to pull on a Midland jersey at an independent schools’ national under-13 football tournament.
Thirteen-year-old Matt was picked for the regional team after impressing at ISFA (Independent Schools’ Football Association) trials in Shrewsbury, which attracted players across several counties.
The Stafford Grammar pupil, who plays in midfield or on the right wing, will join his Midland team mates on April 7 for the three day festival at Shrewsbury School, where seven regions will compete against eachother. During the event more than 120 players will be eager to catch the eye of selectors who are seeking to put together an ISFA under-14 England squad for next season.
“I’m looking forward to playing alongside some really good players and also competing against some very tough opponents. There’ll be a lot of competition for places so my aim is to enjoy all the matches and play the best I can,” said Matt, who turns out for AFC Telford United’s under-13s and Newport-based Nova United.
On the last day of the festival the best players will be put into three teams for a final trial to create ISFA national under-14 ‘A’ and ‘B’ sides.