In Safe Hands

Edge Hill Physical Education student Alan Fitzpatrick is to represent England at football ? despite hailing from the other side of the Irish Sea!

Alan, 25, has been selected to play for English universities at the Home Nations tournament in Cardiff between April 9th-13th ? a real switch of allegiance given his upbringing in Kilkenny, Southern Ireland.

"I?ve played for Ireland under 21s before and given the chance I'd love to represent my country again at some level," said Alan, who plays in goal. "Having said that, it's a real honour to play for English universities and hopefully this competition will be the first of many."

As a former full-time player with Bohemians however, Alan doubts anything will match the thrill of making his debut for the Dublin side.

"My first game against Seville out in Spain was quite an experience," he added. "We got beat 2-1 but I remember playing pretty well despite a few nerves."

As is the way with smaller scale sporting events however, one of the key challenges isn?t on the field ? it's in the pocket!

"Obviously, at this level the funds aren?t available for all-expenses paid trips to tournaments so the pressure?s on to find some sort of funding that will enable me to go."

If you are interested in sponsoring Alan, please contact him on 07916 127660.