ENGLAND are calling for a Bridgwater College student after he was selected for the national deaf football team squad.

Ben Martin, who studies the Level 3 Diploma in Coaching Football in Community Settings at Bridgwater College, which is linked to the Bristol City Community Trust, will meet up with the squad at the end of May for training in London, where he will prepare for a friendly fixture against Italy Deaf Team, playing centre back.

Ben, 24, of Bristol, said: “The college coaching course is the only reason I was playing centre back and I now feel confident enough to play for a national team, especially as I’ve scored a few goals for the college team already.

“It must be in my blood as I’ve watched my father many times when he played centre back for his local team and won player of the season few times in his career.

“Playing in internationals is the next big step for me, and I’d like to say thank you to the students, tutors, friends and families who have given me so much support for this past two years of coaching.

“I couldn’t explain how I’m feeling right now – I’m over the moon.”

John Murphy, programme manager, said: “Ben has been a mature student on the football coaching programme, being very conscious of time management and organisation – both key qualities for a football coach.

“He has developed a nice coaching style coupled with good knowledge, and will be a fine football coach who is able to work with lots of different age groups.

“He has developed lots of confidence and selfesteem, and has been able to support other learners on his course and share his knowledge with them.”