A TRIO of hopeful footballers will be put through their paces as they attempt to break into the England squad in time for the Homeless World Cup.

Hartlepool lads Adam Sowerby and Michael McLean will be joined by Gateshead’s Amy Caisley at the Homeless Football Association’s training camp at the National Football Centre in St George’s Park, Burton.

Having impressed selectors with their attitude, commitment, interpersonal skills and determination to improve their physical health, all three now hope to be part of the England Homeless squad for September’s tournament.

And they will be joined at St George’s Park by coach David McCormack, from Gateshead, who has been called up as part of the England Homeless FA’s backroom staff.

Having each experienced homelessness, all four have taken big steps in the right direction with the help of the national game after taking part in the North-East Homeless & Recovery Football Initiative.

Backed by Tees Valley Leisure and football charity North East Athletic, the scheme runs twice-weekly football sessions in Gateshead, Sunderland, and Hartlepool.

Michael and Adam take part at The Sports Domes in Seaton Carew, with the focus on boosting the confidence, focus and fitness of participants, while Amy attends sessions at Gateshead’s Redheugh Boys Club.

All four were praised by North East Athletic’s Mal Maclean on receiving their invitations to St George’s Park.

He said: “Their invitations to go to attend the National Football Centre is recognition about far more than their football ability. It’s about recognising their outstanding positive attitude, commitment and willingness to make something of their lives.

“Being asked to represent your country is naturally a tremendous honour, but the key thing is for each of them to continue their development. Naturally, this is another important step along the way.

“When you’ve been homeless or are in recovery, there are many challenges to overcome but what we do know is that those who stick with our courses can really increase their employment chances. It’s that amazing power that football has to transform lives.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for the four of them to be involved with the Homeless FA, who do so much to promote the positive self-perception of our players, whilst challenging and changing negative public perceptions of people who experience homelessness.”

The Homeless and Recovery Football Initiative is open to men and women aged 18 or over. For more information call 07523-114039 (Hartlepool), 07472-100987 (Gateshead) or 07731-859149 (Sunderland).