John Howard

Coleman: Stone Stood Out

A former Everton in the Community coach has heaped praise on a young footballer now representing his country in July’s IFCPF World Cup 2019 in Spain.

Callum Coleman coached Ethan Stone during his time with the Blues’ official charity and is hoping the 18-year-old can achieve his full potential with his country.

“First of all I would like to say Ethan was fantastic to coach,” said Callum. “ From day one, he stood out as a great all-round footballer.

“His fitness was key to his success and his head was always on the game and he wasn’t scared to ask for advice if he needed to, which made him stand out to everyone on the side line and on the pitch.”

After a call-up to the U21 squad in February, Kirkby-born Ethan was fast-tracked into the Andy smith’s senior squad which will be part of a 16-team tournament battling to become world champions in Seville.

And Callum hopes that this will only be the start of the journey for the teenage talent, as he explains.

“Hopefully one day I get a phone call saying he has gone on to captain England in a World Cup and will be lifting that trophy,” he continued. “He is such an amazing player and amazing young man and I wish him all the success in the world.”

CP United star Ethan and his teammates began their quest to become world champions on 2 July.

The Para Lions faced Japan, Germany and Brazil in the group stage after qualification was secured with a fifth-placed finish in the IFCPFC European Championships last summer.

Smith’s side opened their campaign against Germany on Monday, 8 July.

Two wins and a defeat ensured qualification and the USA in the last eight.