Spartans teenager gets England call

Blyth Spartans midfielder Jack Stanger has been called up to the England Colleges' squad.

The Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division Spartans are celebrating after their former Consett player, pictured, successfully made it through the North East and Northern England trials and travelled to Telford to take his place alongside thirty two other hopefuls. From those, a squad of twenty two were selected to represent England with Stanger making the final cut.

The midfielder is now looking forward to representing England against national college sides from Scotland, Ireland, Wales and New Zealand. He is also booked to travel to Rome with the squad for a tournament following the upcoming friendlies.

Spartans manager Paddy Atkinson is delighted with the news and congratulated the teenager on his England call.

He said: "We saw a talented player in Jack the very first time he trained with the squad and he’s still only 18. I'm sure it won't be long before he is pushing for a regular starting place if he keeps improving, listening and learning the way he has been.

He added: "He's a mature lad for his age and we are delighted for him that he made the squad. It’s a real boost for him and the club. Well done to Jack on behalf of everyone connected with Blyth Spartans."