SUPER striker John Cooper scored twice on his walking football debut for England.
He was also named man of the match in the 4-0 win over Wales in the first international match between the two home nations.
The over-60s match took place at Jenner Park – home of Barry Town United FC on Saturday, September 8.
Cooper, aged 62, is a member of Hartshill Strollers WFC who play at Summerhill School, Kingswinford.
Cooper – nicknamed Cooperman – is one of the country’s leading club goal-scorers having once netted 14 times in a single tournament.
The commissioning engineer from Woodcross in Wolverhampton. said: “Playing for your country is a great honour. To score twice on your debut, win the game, and finally be named Man of the Match is beyond my wildest dreams.
“I am a very proud man.”
Cooper scored England’s second and fourth goals, either side of half time.
The setting up earlier this year of England walking football squads – both over-60s and over-50s – is a sign of the huge progress of the sport.
The national 60+ squad includes Alan Kennedy, former Liverpool, Newcastle United and England player; and Tommy Charlton, younger brother of Bobby and Jack Charlton. The first walking football European Cup will be held next year and the inaugural World Cup in 2020.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here