OLD TRAFFORD lived up to its nickname the Theatre of Dreams when a young Leyland goalkeeper played for his country in front of a 35,000 crowd.

Michael Bingham, 15, was struck down by tonsilitis the day before the big game, but regardless of his illness, the Wellfield High School pupil had an outstanding game for England Under 15s as they drew 0-0 with France.

After last Saturday's match the promising youngster, of St David's Road, was awarded with his first international cap - given to players who have been in the squad all season.

Michael is signed on at Blackburn Rovers and after finishing his GCSE's this summer will join the club full-time and train with the likes of Tim Flowers and Shay Given. He hopes to be in the team that plays Scotland tonight (April 24) at Nottingham Forest's City Ground.

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