Manager speaks on England Boys' Trials
Friday 14 October 2011By ESFA Office
Last Updated:
10/02/2021 11:49:14
Andy Wiiliams (royal blue) coaches England boys during last season
England Under 18 Schoolboys Team Manager, Andy Williams, speaks to esfa.co.uk about the forthcoming Regional Trials which are being held around the country over the weekends of 22/23 October and 29/30 October.
"As a football fanatic as much as the manager, I am delighted the trials have finally arrived. It has been a longwhile since the final international of last season against the Republic of Ireland; or it certainly feels that way. I have been having a few withdrawal symptoms!!!
The regional trials (QEGS in the North, Belper Town in the Midland, Northwood FC in the SE and The Fry Club in the SW) provide us with an immediate benchmark of the playing standard we can expect this year.I am encouraged that the initial feedback I have received from our County Associations about nominated players is very positive indeed.We have been very fortunate that over the last couple of years a number of good players have emerged, so our counties definitely do a fantastic job on our behalf. However, I always remind the players that we are not only looking for good players, but also good people who can represent the ESFA as international schoolboys with dignity and class.
It has not go un-noticed by the management team that having started the pre-season so well, last year's international results were rather disappointing. It goes without saying that we examined our programme in detail to make it even more interesting and focused as we look to put that right this year. I do know that the players selected will do their utmost to play with passion, pride and panache. As a management team we have learnt valuable lessons, and we are looking forward to producing a better team, better performances, and better results!
The trial period is very condensed this year withthe final squad being finalised before Christmas. That adds to my personal anticipation and excitement as you can probably tell and then the New Year will bring the fixtures programme."
