Latest news from the Essex FA

Young Essex footballers can model themselves on Gareth Southgate’s England prospects this summer by competing in the Essex FA Midweek 11v11 Under-21s League on Barking Abbey School’s brand new 3G pitch.

For seven Tuesdays between 6-9pm, starting from July 14, there will be an opportunity for clubs, individuals or groups of friends aged 16-20 to play under the lights just like Harry Kane, Danny Ings and Saido Berahino.

They will be competing for England at the European Under-21s Championships in the Czech Republic and it’s hoped this will inspire local youngsters to get involved themselves, maybe as part of a summer training programme.

The cost to enter will be only £22 per week (just £2 each for a squad of 11) and each team is allowed a maximum of 14 players (11 players, three substitutes) and normal 11-a-side rules apply, with substitutions on a roll-on, roll-off basis.

The matches will be 40 minutes straight through and squads will have staggered fixtures.

To enter a team, express an interest or find out more information, please contact Luke Hornsley, the Essex FA College & Community Football Co-ordinator, on 01245 393076 or email luke.hornsley@essexfa.com.

Further details on grassroots Essex football can be found at essexfa.com, by following @EssexCountyFA on Twitter and by searching for ‘EssexFootball’ on Facebook.