English Schools' Football Association

Andy Williams

esfa.co.uk caught up with England Under 18 Schools’ Team Manager, Andy Williams, to gain his thoughts on the recent training camp in Spain. Here is what Andy had to say:

“Analysing everything, it has been an eventful week, one which I am really pleased with the team's progress. We have assimilated the injured Tom Ingham's replacement into the squad, Ben Mooney; accomplished an understanding of the team's attacking and defensive principles; and performed well in both games.

Even though there was very little down time, nevertheless, the players accepted the responsibility of establishing a team spirit very quickly. I am delighted with how well they appreciate one another's company and how much they respect each other's efforts. There are no superstar egos, each player is very humble and a genuine hard working team member.

My task of managing the team over the week was made easy by the magnificent contribution of each member of my management team. Dave Burns (physio) and Dr Arthur Tabor performed minor miracles in keeping the players available for selection, whilst Andy Buckingham (assistant) and Shaun Hemming (goalkeeper coach) ran a series of detailed and fun technical practice sessions. The whole football programme was of a very high level and the players responded accordingly. Although beating CF Benidorm U18s 4-1 (Michael Sweet 2, James Golby, Peter Glen-Ravenhill) and CF Valencia 2-1 (Joe Bunney, Michael Sweet) was in itself satisfying and rewarding, I was more interested in the performances than the results. I am delighted with my squad and my players at this time, I believe they have created a wonderful platform upon which we can build. I look forward with interest.”

England Boys' Training Camp in Spain Report
England U18 Boys’ Fixture List 2012
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