TWO ANDOVER Town stars could get the opportunity to represent their country as they prepare for the biggest trials of their lives.

Mark Childs and Charlie Gunson, below, have both made it into the finals of the England School’s under-18 selections, beating off hundreds of the country’s most talented young footballers to earn their place in the last-32.

The Town pair, who are also part of the Sparsholt College Academy programme, will go into the trials at Lilleshall National Sports Centre knowing that a good performance could land them a place against Northern Ireland Schools at E a s t l e i g h ’ s S i l ve rl a ke Stadium in March.

Charlie, who plays in midfield, is a second-year scholar at Sparsholt, which offers young players a route into professional football with its Second Chance Programme, run in association with Southampton Football club.

Although Charlie has never been on Saints books officially, he has played once or twice for their under-17s, while goalkeeper Mark has focused his talent with the Winchesterbased College after spending much of his younger years at Bournemouth Youth Academy.

Mark, who missed out on a place at first but was drafted back in due to his performances for Sparsholt, said: “I’m really excited for the trials “Originally I didn’t get through, so I’m really happy to get a second chance.

“I’m still in shock though, it’s an unbelievable thing to say that I could have an England cap at my age – It would be a really proud moment.”

Charlie added: “I’m feeling confident going up there because I’ve done a lot of work with the coaches at Sparsholt in the last few weeks, especially Lewis Benson who has helped me out a lot.”

“It would an honour to represent my country and having that in mind motivates me more to go and give everything I have.”

Both of the youngsters are regular names for Andover Town and manager Neil Benson, who is also in charge of Sparsholt’s Academy team, was delighted for them both.

He said: ““Having Charlie and Mark selected for the Lilleshall trial sends out a real statement.

“They are both really good lads and I’m pleased they’ve done so well.

“For them to get down the last 32 is a fantastic achievement for both Sparsholt and Andover Town and really highlights the good work that we do.”