England Futsal call for Mansfield Town youngster Smith

Smith has previously appeared for the England U23 Futsal Team, but has now had the call-up for the senior training camp.

With the training camp brings an opportunity for Smith to make the squad for the senior team’s next fixture, a friendly against Croatia on Sunday, 23rd September.

The midfielder says that despite appearing for England’s U23 Futsal side before, the call-up to the senior side was still a surprise, and also explained the main differences between 11-a-side football and the game of Futsal.

“It was a bit of a surprise,” said Smith. “I didn’t expect it. After only playing one game with the U23s, I got the call and was obviously really happy about it.

“It should be good. We have the weekend camp coming up and I’m really looking forward to it.

“Hopefully I can have a good camp and try and get out there against Croatia with the squad. It will be a good experience.

“I didn’t expect it. After only playing one game with the under-23s, I got the call and was obviously really happy about it.”

“Futsal is indoors and is played on a pitch that’s slightly bigger than a regular five-a-side court. It’s played four outfield players against four, or five against five if you count the keeper.

“The game is much quicker and you get less touches on the ball. There is a lot of movement between the players.

“You have to be always switched on mentally. The game is played at a really high pace because there are a lot of transitions as obviously it’s played on a small court.”