Seagull Stephens aims to go from non-league to England... just like his Foxes role-model I’LL DO IT THE VARD WAY

BRIGHTON midfielder Dale Stephens reckons his non-league grounding can help him ‘do a Vardy’ and burst into the England team.

Stephens, who spent spells at Hyde United and Droylsden as a teenager, is a rising star on the south coast at the age of 28.

He missed out on a call-up to Gareth Southgate’s squad for the Germany and Brazil friendlies, but hasn’t given up hope of World Cup glory – inspired by memories of the Conference North.

Another dominant display against Stoke at the Amex tonight won’t do his chances any harm.

Stephens said: “I think I was a second-year youth trainee at Bury, about 17, when I went to Hyde.

“The assistant manager had connections there and thought it would be good for me to go out and get a taste of men’s football.

“I’m not sure how big the crowd was, one man and his dog probably.

“I don’t think I had to wash my own kit – but only because they didn’t have training kit. But it’s a good club and I enjoyed every minute at Hyde.

“Droylsden was very similar – an important part of my development.”

Seeing Leicester striker Vardy go from Stocksbridge Park Steels to England has strengthened Stephens’ belief that he can follow suit.

“Going into non-league when you’re young keeps you hungry,” he insisted.

“When that’s your norm, you enjoy what comes with it when you step up a level.

“The youngsters now are spoilt, no doubt. I tell the young lads I used to clean the toilets and seats, and put the goalposts up every morning.

“Watching what Vardy has done gives you hope.

“His story is such a good one, to come from non-league to do what he’s doing now is fantastic.

“With England now a lot of players have opportunities, you look at the last two fixtures.

“So you have to back yourself. I believe I can play that standard of football and if the opportunity arrives I’ll snatch it with both hands.”

Brighton can reclaim eighth spot with victory over Stoke, and Stephens said: “I think Stoke will be around us all season, so it’s a massive game for both of us. We’ve gathered confidence and belief the more we’ve played.”