Jordan Storey, a central defender in Chard Town’s Under-18s side, has been selected for England Schools.

Jordan is described by his manager Hung Dang – himself a former England schoolboy – as a ‘good head on young shoulders’.

He is commanding at the back and good on the ball going forward into midfield.

His younger brother Nathan, who has just turned 16, also plays for Chard Under-18s and recently made a scoring debut for the reserve side.

Although Jordan is registered with with Chard Town on Western league forms, he plays his Saturday football with Mere Town in the Dorset county league.

Jordan, who lives in South Petherton, gained his sought-after place following a gruelling series of trials. The 17-year-old Yeovil College student’s first successful trial was for the South-West team.

After two further trials he was selected for the final national squad of just 18. A total of six South-West players, including Jordan, made it to the final line up.

The former Stanchester Academy pupil, who is currently completing a combined BTEC Diploma (Level 3) Sport and Football Academy programme, said: “When I got the letter to say I’d been picked for England Schools, Dad and I opened it together. “We were both ecstatic that I’d finally done it after such a long process. “I’m excited to be part of such a great team that I’ve heard so much about – and relieved that I’ve done enough to get chosen.” Yeovil College lecturer Andy Mitchell said “Jordan’s one of a number of our students who stand out as exceptional players, head and shoulders above many of the footballers we’ve met in competition.” His first match with his new side will be against Australia at Stafford Town FC next Wednesday (February 4.)