A young North East goalkeeper was chosen to attend a special development camp for future England stoppers.

Hartlepool United keeper Bradley Young has attended St George’s Park as part of an England Goalkeeping Development Camp.

The camp is part of a scheme to identify up and coming England football talent.

The 17-year-old was delighted to be chosen.

Brad said: “When I first heard about the news I was shocked as you don’t expect to get the recognition in the lower leagues so to be recognised I was buzzing. ”

“I really enjoyed the camp as it was good challenging myself with top keepers around the country and working with high level coaches and I feel like I give a good account of my self.”

Brad signed a professional contract in the summer for Hartlepool after interest from clubs in the Football League. 

Brad, who stands at 6ft 4ins,  is currently on a season long loan with Billingham Town in Northern League Division One.

He caught the eye of England scouts with his performances in the FA Youth Cup for Hartlepool and during the season at Billingham.

Brad said: “At England the goalkeeping standard was top notch with the lowest team other than mine was League One. ”

“The intensity of the sessions was very high and standard was unbelievable.”

Brad had the chance to speak to  England goalkeeper Tom Heaton.

Brad said: “Tom Heaton did a question and answer session with the group so it give us a insight and feel of what it takes to be a Premier League and England Goalkeeper and that the journey isn’t  easy and smooth. ”

Brad Young in action for Billingham Town. Photo Credit – Billingham Town / Jim Chapman

 

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