15/1/09

Lewes Under 18 players Matt Whitehead and David Wheeler have both been named in the 18-man England Schools representative squad this week.

They have undergone a series of regional trials since the autumn, and the final selection stage from the best 32 players across the country was held last weekend at Lilleshall National Sports Centre.

Wheeler who plays on the right wing, is studying at Sussex Downs College in Lewes, whilst left back Whitehead (pictured) is at Chichester College in West Sussex.

The pair both play in the Lewes U18 side which has enjoyed an eventful season so far, including the visit of Premiership side Hull City in the third round of the FA Youth Cup.

Wheeler has earned his place as a regular in the Lewes first team this season, having made his Blue Square Premier debut in the away defeat against Torquay back in November, and has certainly established himself as a favourite amongst the fans for his exciting performances.

Whitehead made his first team debut in November in the Sussex Senior Cup victory against Selsey but has found further opportunities limited, although his form this season has not escaped the Lewes management team.

Both players are joined by Simon Johnson from Eastbourne Borough, and James Norwood of Eastbourne Town in a four-strong Sussex contingent, which is the first time the Sussex FA has been so heavily represented at this level.

The squad will attend a training camp at Spanish La Liga team Villareal in February, before facing Wales on the 5th March and Northern Ireland on 27th March.Games away to Scotland on 17th April and Republic of Ireland on 24th April complete a busy few months for the lads.

Everyone at Lewes FC is rightly proud of their achievements and wishes both players every success for the future.