England’s Under 17 footballers made a big impression when they paid a visit to a youth team in Cyprus.
The Young Lions were preparing to compete in the UEFA Under 17s European Championship, which started on 20 May.
But players and coaching staff dropped in on Ayios Nikolaos Youth FC, whose members are children of Army, Royal Navy and RAF personnel based at the Joint Service Signal Unit.
Players had a kick-about with the children and handed out player of the session trophies.
Cpl Matthew Mahoney, Ay Nik Youth’s head coach said. “The visit has left a lasting impression on our young players and has ignited their passion and motivation.
“My little boy has not stopped talking about the visit and spent all Sunday in the back garden practising to be the next Jack Fletcher as he’s a big Man United fan!”
Ay Nik Youth was formed in 2015 and transformed two years ago from a ‘turn up and play’ team into a grassroots club offering training sessions for five to 10-year-olds.
Photos by Cameron McDougall