A 70-year-old man from West Kirby has done what most of us can only dream of, by helping England win a historic football match against Wales.

Mike Unwin was selected to represent the Three Lions' over 70s team in the NHS Challenge Trophy match at St George's Park on Thursday, September 23.

And it was England who came out on top in the special contest, beating their Welsh neighbours 3-0.

Mike told the Globe: "It was a great experience playing on a pitch the size of Wembley at the FA Training Ground.

"I lost hours of sleep worrying about not getting picked, scoring an own goal or getting stuck in a traffic jam!

"I was impressed by the sheer size of the centre and the velvety surface of the outdoor grass football pitches. We got a great welcome from staff at the centre.

"The changing room was the size of a house and garden together."

Mike Unwin is an England international at 70

Mike Unwin is an England international at 70

The over-70s team is a new development, led by England’s representative Player/Manager Ken Pollock and three close colleagues, who together have worked over many years to organise fixtures, selection and co-ordinate players from Newcastle down to the South-West.

Incredibly, the oldest player on the pitch - 79-year-old John Shannon - was cheered on from the sidelines by his 104-year-old father.

Proud Mike said: "There was great camaraderie between Welsh and English players as we met in the entrance on to Wembley-size replica 4G pitch.

"This led to lively singing of national anthems (a competition in itself!) before we were individually introduced to Beryl Beel, who has worked for the NHS for more than 40 years.

"It's fair to say we played very strongly throughout and deserved our three goals. We also prevented them from having any shots on goal so a very good feeling afterwards. No quarter given by either side."

Despite the one-sided scoreline, a rematch in Wales is now in the planning.

Reflecting on his international call-up, he added: "I've been surprised to get the opportunity, but then determined not to waste this chance, to play for England.

"Even more importantly, I hope to have played a small role in encouraging others to participate in sport no matter what the age. "Keep playing until you can't" is the key message."

Speaking to the Globe, England Over 70s team manger Ken Pollock said: "Mike played extremely well at right-back. He can be very proud of himself.

"The link between football and health is marked. My message to anyone who dreamed of playing for England is, keep going. Those who were good enough at 23 won't necesserily be good enough at 70!"