Michael Skubala has announced the squad for his first official home game as England’s Futsal head coach.
The Three Lions take on Wales in a double header at St. George’s Park on 4 and 5 November, with a 15-man squad selected by Skubala for the games.
There’s a first senior call-up for Dylan Malpas, who has come through the ranks of the Futsal pathway with the U19s and U23s over the last few years and is now looking to make the step up.
Skubala has also recalled Stuart Cook, who has been an influential player for England over the years and, notably, with National League teams.
“Stuart is in better shape now than five years ago which shows that there is still desire and thirst to compete at the top level,” said Skubala.
“We all know his ability at National League level, so it’s about now transferring that to international level.
'It’s important we get the balance of young players and old players right as we move into our next two to four year cycle and for me it’s about putting in consistent performances whenever we play as an England team.
“At times we have been great one game and then no so good the next, but for me consistency is key to long term development.
“We have some talented youngsters now coming through the ranks but exposure to playing international Futsal is a whole new thing for them and to then perform consistently as a team at this level is key.”
After some impressive results against China and Malaysia in their summer fixtures, Skubala is now looking to build on that against a competitive Welsh team, who recently turned over a good Sweden side.
“It’s great to be playing Wales, who are also developing their Futsal well which shows in their recent results against Sweden,” he said.
“We know each other very well being neighbours and it will make for a great spectacle.”
Tickets are on sale now at just £5 (adult) and £3 (concession & U16) and the games will take place at St George's Park on Saturday 4 November (6pm KO) and Sunday 5 November (4pm KO). Click here to purchase tickets.
The squad
Jonathan Sim - Helvecia
James Webb - Helvecia
Liam Palfreeman - Helvecia
Stuart Cook - Helvecia
William Rooke - Loughborough Futsal
Raoni Medina - Helvecia
Jonathan Adams - Birmingham Futsal
Douglas Reed - Manchester Futsal
Jordan Edge - Manchester Futsal
Dylan Malpas -University of Nottingham
Calvin Dickson - Helvecia
Russell Goldstein - Helvecia
Maximillian Kilman - Helvecia
Robert Bettson - York City
Richard Ward - Virtus Noicattaro
