2TR founder Charlie Browne with Remelle Alcendor de Souza, Daniel Purdue, Jonti Purdom & Luke Dyer

Published: 27 August, 2015
by STEVE BARNETT

A SQUAD of eight young footballers start what could prove a life-changing journey today (Thursday) when they travel to Egypt to represent England in the first SATUC World Cup. 

The boys are flying out from Heathrow for a fully-funded, all-expenses-paid, trip to Cairo after being selected to represent their country as part of the 2TR Football team in the six-a-side competition. 

Coach and 2TR Football founder Charlie Browne says his Under-15s side “are very much underdogs” as they prepare to tackle international teams managed by former World Cup stars. But with Haverstock schoolboys Remelle Alcendor de Souza, Daniel Purdue and Luke Dyer within their ranks there’s always a chance of snatching glory. 

On the mend: Jonti Purdom

There should have been four boys from the secondary school in Chalk Farm making the trip, but talented  goalkeeper Jonti Purdom was forced to withdraw from the squad at the very last minute after fracturing his wrist while on trial at League Two side Barnet. 

The 14-year-old, who lives in Swiss Cottage, said he was “disappointed” that he couldn’t go, but was determined to win his place back within the squad in the hope that the 2TR team represent England on the international stage again in the future. 

“I’m disappointed in myself,” he said. “My dad said I shouldn’t have gone to the trial with the trip to Egypt so close. But a coach from Barnet said there was a chance to earn a six-week trial at the club, and maybe even a place in their academy. 

“As soon as I heard the word academy I got over-excited,” admitted Jonti. “When my wrist heals I’ll return to training with 2TR, and hopefully win back my place within the squad.” 

Charlie, who lives in Islington, said Jonti will learn from the experience and go on to become a better player. “It was a case of youth verses experience,” he said. “He was told not to play or take any unnecessary risks because the tournament was right around the corner. 

“He took a gamble and it didn’t pay off. But if Jonti remains as good a player as he is now, or gets even better, he’ll have every chance of getting back in our squad.”