England Stars Surprise Talented Youngster to Support International Day of Persons with Disabilities
A young visually impaired footballer had an unforgettable experience as The Football Association showed its support for International Day of Persons with Disabilities last week.
Nine-year-old Mikey Poulli, who has previously made headlines due to his extraordinary football skills, was given the chance to meet his footballing heroes at St. George’s Park – the National Football Centre and home to all 27 England teams.
Mikey was diagnosed with a rare and incurable eye disease aged seven but he hasn’t let his disability diminish his passion for football and due to his amazing ability he has previously trained with England Men’s Blind Team. In a specially-arranged surprise session, Mikey got to meet his favourite England player, Liverpool right back Trent Alexander-Arnold, alongside another of his England heroes, winger Jadon Sancho.
Mikey and the young England internationals were joined Brandon Coleman and Azeem Amir from England Men’s Blind Team who put all three through their paces wearing blindfolds to share what visually impaired players around the world experience when they are playing.
Commenting on the experience, Trent Alexander-Arnold said:
“It was a pleasure to come and be a part of a day like this.”
Jadon Sancho added:
“Trying it today was so difficult. I’m definitely going to watch a game as it’s crazy what these guys can do. I’m sure me and Trent will organise a game that we can go and watch.”
This is brilliant ❤️@trentaa98, @Sanchooo10 and two members of the England Blind team helped us with a very special surprise for young fan @mikeypoulli recently!#InternationalDisabilityDay pic.twitter.com/NE9OQHcfx2
— England (@England) December 3, 2019
