England's Three Lions Are Finally Ready To Roar Again

The National League are thrilled to have been able to assist with some of the funding required to ensure the Three Lions roar again.

They face a Welsh side made up of players from the Cymru Premier in a match taking place at Caernarfon Town, kick-off 7pm.

It has been quite some time since Fairclough prowled the touchline as an England C set-up that has helped spawn some big stars tries to get the conveyer belt of talent rolling again.

The manager has some tough choices to make, and it’s now an open age group for the first time since 2006.

He says he has plenty of “winners” in the camp and can’t wait to see what his players are made of for the first time in three seasons.

“It feels very good to be back, it has certainly been a long time coming,” said Fairclough.

“It’s been a while and it’s been difficult for many people and unfortunately players have lost the chance to play for England C and represent their country.

“Having this opportunity again is fantastic, it’s something we have missed greatly.

“It’s been a near two-and-half-year wait and it’s been a long road to get to where we are now.”

The England C squad dates back as far as 1979. The team has been competing regularly ever since, mostly against U23 sides from nations from across the world.

Recent years have seen the team also reach three finals of the International Challenge Trophy in 2009, 2011 and 2017, finishing runners-up on each occasion.

“This is a match that offers an opportunity to players to earn an international cap,” veteran boss Fairclough said.

“It was not an easy task selecting our squad, we’ve used more stats than we have ever done in the past.

“We have some great players to pick from and everyone is excited by the challenge. Whatever the result, hopefully it is just the start and we can move England C forward again.”

Just like senior boss Gareth Southgate, Fairclough hasn’t been able to escape a number of unfortunate withdrawals.

Ben Wynter and Armani Little, both of Torquay United have both been drafted into the squad - as well as Matt Palmer from Notts County.

Wales vs England C takes place at Caernarfon Town on Wednesday, kick-off 7pm

PHOTO CREDIT: DAVID LOVEDAY