Skipper on stand-by after England call!

Ilkeston FC skipper Joe Maguire is on standby to fly the flag for the EVO-STIK League in international football after being called up to the latest England C squad.

England’s Non-League representative side are preparing to take on Turkey in the International Challenge Trophy next month and the Robins defender, pictured, was named on Monday in manager Paul Fairclough’s 20-man contingency squad for the must-win trip in Group A.

England C are heading to the FA’s St George’s Park this weekend to use the state-of-the-art facilities for the first time during a two day training camp and Fairlclough has told the talented central defender to be ready to join his 16-man Football Conference dominated squad if he is hit by injuries this week.

Maguire, the brother of Harry - Hull City’s £2.5million summer signing from Sheffield United - has been involved with Ilkeston FC since the launch of the club four years ago and was appointed club captain during the close-season in succession to Laurie Wilson.

The player celebrates his 23rd birthday on Tuesday and Robins manager Kevin Wilson is delighted for Maguire, named as the Premier Division club’s 2014 Player of the Year at the New Manor Ground in May.

He said: "It’s fantastic for Joe and the club that he should receive this recognition. He thoroughly deserves it after the way he has started the season and his inclusion should act as a message to all of our players. Good performances - regardless of the level you’re playing at - get their reward."

Image courtesy of www.nottinghampost.com

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