RMI's free-scoring winger Steve Jones got his England call-up papers this week.

In-form Jones was drafted into the England Non-League squad that faced Holland in Weert last night.

England boss John Owens has chosen the 23-year-old Failsworth flyer to replace Rushden's Paul Underwood who withdrew from the 16-man party through injury. Owens usually gives all his players a runout, so Jones could expect to get the opportunity to test his blistering pace and sharp finishing against the Dutch, even if he was named as sub.

Leigh boss Steve Waywell greeted news of Jones' international call-up with delight. "It's a great honour for Steve as well as for the club and he certainly deserves his chance.

"He's having a wonderful season and the only thing that baffles me about Steve is that, so far, I haven't received a single inquiry about him from a League club.

"I firmly believe that he should be playing in the lower divisions and appearing for England will give him the opportunity to show what he's capable of doing on a bigger stage. And for us to have a player called up to the England squad is, I feel, worthy recognition of the progress we've made this season."

Leigh will be leave a place in their side open for Jones should he come through the Holland game unscathed.

RMI stage Friday night football at Hilton Park for the first time tonight when Hereford United are the visitors, kick off 7.45pm.

Leigh, unbeaten in the Conference since the end of December, climbed to fifth spot by virtue of last weekend's 2-1 win at Dover and victory tonight over the former Football League club will improve their chances of the top five finish in their debut season.

Their record against the Bulls isn't too bad. They got a point from their league meeting at Edgar Street, drew 0-0 in the FA Trophy before being edged out 2-1 in the replay.

Waywell is hoping to complete the signing of Hyde United full-back Paul Robertson before tonight's game. Making way for Robertson could be transfer-listed striker Mick Morrell who is interesting Scarborough.