TheFA.com

Sam's World Cup dream

  • Friday, 18 September, 2009
  • Sam Baldock
  • Sam Baldock
  • Sam Baldock

MK Dons hitman anticipating first international experience.

FIFA U20 World Cup
The Finals
24 September - 16 October
Egypt

England’s preparations for the U20 World Cup are well underway, with the squad currently in Cyprus to train and acclimatise ahead of the competition in Egypt and for one member of the party, it just can’t start quickly enough.

MK Dons striker Sam Baldock is currently enjoying his first taste of life with the Young Lions after being named in the 21-man squad who will initially take on Uruguay, Ghana and Uzbekistan in their group stage.

Baldock was previously named in the U20s squad for the game with Montenegro in August and unfortunately had to withdraw through injury, but he’s back and is now looking to make an impression on the world stage.

"It's a case of being thrown straight in at the deep end,” he said.

“It's a prestigious tournament with a lot of attention surrounding it, but it's an opportunity I'd like to think I can thrive on. If I can hit the ground running, I'd love to make a big impression.

"It's a bit of a cliche, but it'll be a dream come true to pull on an England shirt and sing the national anthem.

"I suppose the ultimate dream is to do it for the Senior team but even with the U20s, it will be a very proud moment if I get the chance.

"I'm ready to fight for a place and I just hope I can be there or thereabouts come the start of the tournament.”

England’s first game comes next Saturday when they face Uruguay in Ismailia and for the 20-year-old, the first player to graduate from the MK Dons Academy and become a first team regular, it will be something different to what he has experienced before.

"There will be teams involved from all over the world; different styles, different cultures and different people - so it's going to be a great experience,” he added.

"One thing you can be sure of is that no team or player will want to lose so it's going to be competitive and hopefully we can progress.”

For Cyprus tourist information, please log-on to www.visitcyprus.com

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