FOOTBALL: McEachran could get Olympics call-up (From Bicester Advertiser)

FOOTBALL: McEachran could get Olympics call-up

10:00am Thursday 19th January 2012 in Sport

Kidlington's Josh McEachran could be lining up for Great Britain’s team in the Olympic Games this summer.

The 18-year-old Chelsea midfielder, from Kirtlington, who this week joined Swansea on a season-long loan, is one of around 270 players who have been asked by the Football Association if they are willing to play for Britain at London 2012.

The net has been cast wide for the 18-man squad as manager Stuart Pearce is allowed just three players over the age of 23 and it is unlikely he will choose any players taking part in Euro 2012.

David Beckham, 37, is expected to make himself available and accept the captaincy.

Meanwhile, McEachran has revealed why he joined Swansea on loan for the rest of the season.

The 18-year-old trained with his new teammates on Sunday, after the move was ratified by the Premier League.

McEachran, who joined Chelsea at the age of eight, said: “I’m delighted to be here. I wanted to come earlier but Chelsea had a few injuries and things.

“There was interest from a number of other Premier League clubs, but I wanted to come to Swansea because of the style of football they play. I think it will suit me.

“The manager (Brendan Rodgers) also had a big impact on my decision. I’ve known him from his Chelsea days and I think he is a fantastic manager.

“He’s got the team playing well. It’s a really young team and I think I will fit in well. I certainly hope so, because I want to get a place in the team and play a lot more Premier League games.”

Rodgers added: “He’s an incredible passer of the ball and I know the England set-up have very high hopes for him as well.

“He can create chances and has wonderful vision on the ball, he fits perfectly into our team.”