England call for Marling starlet (From Stroud News and Journal)

Simon set to face Ireland

11:22am Monday 11th March 2013 in Sport By SNJ Sport

MARLING student Simon Linsell has been selected for the England U18s rugby squad after a string of eye-catching performances for Gloucester Academy and the South West of England, writes Will Butcher.

The 18-year-old second row forward is set to face Ireland in Dublin on March 30.

He said: " I am delighted at the prospect of playing at such a prestigious level."

Linsell started his youth career at Painswick, whilst also playing for Marling. Emerging as a second row forward he alerted the Gloucestershire county team, and continued to impress at this level.

He was then spotted by Gloucester and has played for them since the age of 15. He has continued to be ever-present for Gloucester, despite rejecting an offer from Hartpury College, where the majority of Gloucester Academy players go to study.

Whilst playing for Gloucester, Linsell was selected to play for the South West of England at under-16 level. Head of PE at Marling, Mark Nicholson, a former Gloucester and Stroud winger, said: " We are all so proud of Simon's achievement and it is one that is truly deserved.

"He is a great example that if you work hard and act upon advice you can achieve anything.

"On a personal note it has been a privilege to have been part of Simons rugby development and to see him now fulfilling his dream and his potential and becoming an international rugby player."