Starkie called up by Tanzania

Forward Ben Starkie has been called up by Tanzania U-23s for their upcoming African Cup of Nations qualifiers against South Sudan.

Played over two legs, the first will be held in Dar es Salaam on Friday, 23 September before the return fixture three days later.

In a significant step, it is the first time a current Basford United player has ever been asked to represent their national side.

The 20-year-old has turned heads since his arrival in pre-season and his call-up caps a fine start to his debut season at Greenwich Avenue.

He made a senior debut for the East African nation earlier this year, playing 45 minutes in a 3-1 friendly win over Central African Republic and has represented them from U-17 level.

The winners will go on to face Nigeria in the second round before ties against Guinea or Uganda later this year.

The U-23 African Cup of Nations is scheduled to start in June 2023 and is hosted by Morocco.

Congratulations, Ben!