England C experience bodes well for Halls

MACCLESFIELD Town defender Andy Halls believes he has learned a lot from being part of the England C team this week.

The 23-year-old, pictured right, was called up to the squad for the match against Ukraine in the opening fixture of the International Challenge Trophy on Tuesday.

The England C team will then have a home time against Slovakia on Sunday 5 June before a third group clash against Estonia in November.

Halls has been a key part of the Macclesfield side this season after making 32 National League appearances.

While he would much rather be playing for the England senior side, he insists he was still honoured to be representing his country in some capacity.

“I knew I was on standby but I got a late call on Thursday so it’s nice to be called up into the full squad,” he said.

“It is a great experience to go to the Ukraine as it will look good on the CV and it sets you in good stead.

“You’re playing against class players with good technical ability but obviously my main goal is to try and do my best every week for Macclesfield.”

Paul Fairclough is the manager of the England C team, and he was looking forward to the clash against Ukraine.

Speaking ahead of the game, he said: “This is an interesting game against new opponents who will no doubt be very good.

“I am excited about the squad, which is one of the strongest we have had for some time.”