The teams - England

Hosts - Group A

1 - Dan James - Goalkeeper

As a young player Dan was at Exeter City but unfortunately did not get offered a professional contract; however he shrugged off this disappointment and is now a community policeman in Exeter and has secured his place as a regular starter. As a fully sighted member of the squad, his role is crucial, particularly during games when his distribution and information dissemination can determine how successful the team can be in the Championship.

Age: 23
Lives: Exeter
Caps: 24
Goals: 0
Club: London

2 - Simon Hill

Simon is a steady and dependable defender who always has a cool head and ability to play under pressure. He juggles his training and playing activities with a full time job with the West Midlands Police.

Age: 24
Lives: Stourbridge
Caps: 13
Goals: 0
Club: West Bromwich Albion

3 - Will Norman

Will's first tournament was the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games and he has been ever present since that tourrament. He is a central defender who gets better with every game he plays and will be key to the success of the team.

Age: 31
Lives: Worcester
Caps: 9
Goals: 0
Club: Worcester

4 - Keryn Seal

Keryn's first tournament was the 2006 World Championship in Argentina and he has grown in stature with every game he plays. A versatile player who is confident in all areas of the pitch and is a real driving force, he is very passionate when wearing the Three Lions.

Age: 28
Lives: Exeter
Caps: 21
Goals: 3
Club: Worcester

5 - Robin Williams

Having yet to gain his first cap Robin has broken onto the scene and could be the surprise package at the Championship. He is full of energy and his fitness could prove vital during the group games. Normally playing as a wing back, he has the capacity to run from box to box all day.

Age: 22
Lives: Bridgwater
Caps: 0
Goals: 0
Club: Worcester

6 - Dan English

Despite being the youngest player in the squad, Dan is expecting to challenge for a starting place. He has the ability to play anywhere on the pitch and will relish the coming battles.

Age: 19
Lives: Sunderland
Caps: 4
Goals: 0
Club: Royal National College for the Blind

7 - Dave Clarke - Captain

Dave is the most capped player in the team and has been a great servant to blind football. He has been a prolific goal scorer with a near goal-a-game record and is vital to the success of England. Dave’s vast experience and personality will prove invaluable.

Age: 39
Lives: Harpenden
Caps: 111
Goals: 108
Club: London

8 - Jonathan Heenan

Jon is another debutant yet to gain his first cap, but he has impressed since he broke into the frame for selection last year. As a defender, he is still learning the game and will gain valuable experience from his participation in this tournament.

Age: 21
Lives: Sheffield
Caps: 0
Goals: 0
Club: Royal National College for the Blind

9 - Jonathan Gribbin

Jon has developed into one of the most talented players in the world. Prior to losing his sight, he played for the England Partially Sighted squad but moved to the blind team once his sight deteriorated greatly. With quick feet and fluid movement, Jon is able to lead the line with confidence.

Age: 34
Lives: Abergavenny
Caps: 9
Goals: 10
Club: Everton

10 - Lewis Skyers - Goalkeeper

Lewis is one of the permitted sighted goalkeepers, and is another who will also gain his first cap at this event. He has adapted well to the blind futsal game from his usual involvement with Malvern Town in the Midland Alliance, and his handling and shot stopping make him a natural contender for the team.

Age: 26
Lives: Ledbury
Caps: 0
Goals: 0
Club: Worcester

Staff list

Tony Larkin (Head Coach)
John Ball (Coach)
Jonathan Pugh (Assistant Coach)
Isi Obuaya (Medic)
Oli Davies (Physio)
Mat Jones (Physios)
Ayser Hussain (Sports Scientist)
David Sims (Sports Scientists)
Martin Stevens (Kit Manager)