Andy Williams: England Manager’s Blog
Thursday 16 February 2012By ESFA Office
Last Updated:
10/02/2021 11:49:16
Andy Williams
esfa.co.uk caught up with Andy Williams, the England Schools’ U18 Team Manager, in advance of the international season. Here is what Andy had to say:
“The question I get asked the most is “What is it like to be England Manager?” If I’m honest, I try not to think about it. But when you’re asked the question you do stop and think. The simple truth is it is an absolute honour. We all know a bit about football, but I have worked hard and studied for many years to get this opportunity. When I step out and represent my country on behalf of the ESFA, I am extremely proud. The hardest part of the job, naturally, is picking the team; often all the players deserve to play but that is simply not possible.
Our preparation so far this season has been seamless, unlike last year when everything in the build up seemed to conspire against us. I hope I have not tempted fate by saying that! The organisation of regional trials was as superb as ever and we saw in total just short of 200 players. The standard was once again very high and I would like to thank all of those teachers out there that nominated these players. It always amazes me when I see such a collection of talent, that clubs have dismissed many of them so early or even missed them! One of our secondary aims is to get players back into the shop window, let us hope we can assist in rewarding the passion and talent of one or two this season.
The first gathering of the final squad for the season is always special. The players arrive with a sense of excitement, they get kitted out with training gear and suit, we have a presentation meal to welcome them on board, the team and individual photographs are taken, and we are able to set the scene for the season ahead.
From there the season will move at a rapid pace as we meet virtually every other week for internationals. We will travel to Spain for a training camp where we will drill the players, this is followed by Centenary Shield games against Wales, Northern Ireland, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland, with an international against Poland immersed somewhere in between.
Our goal for the season is nothing world shattering; it is to help each player to become a better person and a better player. I am confident that with their hard work, and with the professionalism of the backroom staff, we will accomplish that goal. The aim, however, is to do it by having as much fun as possible along the way.”
