PNEWFC goalkeeper Danielle Gibbons has been called up to the England squad for the Under 19s European Championship first round qualifiers which are to be held later this month in Moldova.

Gibbons, 18, was selected to train with England last month in a bid to impress manager Mo Marley by fighting off five goalkeepers to grab a seat on the plane, which will fly out on September 7th for the ten day trip.

The Preston shot stopper was shocked about receiving her call up; saying: "To be honest, it's surreal. I was speechless when I first found out because I really didn't expect to be selected from the five goalkeepers that went to the training camp in Manchester."

Tattianna Saunders is the other keeper in the 18 woman squad and will provide tough competition for Gibbons, as she already possesses experience at this level.

It won't be an easy ride though for England's young starlets as they take on the hosts Armenia and Finland inside a tough six days.

Gibbons has previous experience of travelling away on international duty as she was part of the England college team that participated in the Youth World Cup in Sweden. Preston North End team mate Chantelle O'Hara was also part of the squad that competed in Gothenburg.

Gibbons said: "Playing in Sweden allowed me to experience what it was like competing under pressure, so I'm sure it will help me to cope with the high expectations and perform well."

The young North End keeper has only just recovered from a knee injury as she landed awkwardly in pre - season, but is now ready to fight for the number one jersey, at both club and national level.

Danielle, who begins her studies at UCLan once returning home from Moldova is looking forward to being part of the England set up under manager Marley. She said: "I just want to enjoy the experience and make the most of it. Okay, if I play that'll be a brilliant bonus. I think we have a very good chance to get past the first phase."

Jonathon Swift