THE Kent Schools FA is delighted that three of its players have been selected for this season's England under-18 squad.

Ashley Ulph (Maidstone Grammar School), Chris Smalling (Chatham Grammar School) and Jason Hawes (Ravenswood School, Bromley) were selected for the international squad following their performances for the Kent Schools under-18s this season and at a series of trials, culminating in a final trials at Lilleshall last weekend.

Their selection reflects the strength of schools' football in the county, and in recent seasons Kent has provided a record number of players for the England team.

John Coles, the manager of the Kent under-18s, said "We're very proud of the boys' achievements and wish them well in the forthcoming series of international matches."

The England squad's programme includes a return for schools' football to Wembley Stadium, when they host Scotland on April 26.