Reprinted from Caribbean Net News
caribbeannetnews.com

Birchall dreaming of Trinidad and England success

Friday, June 9, 2006

by: Darren Ennis

WUEMME, Germany (Reuters): England winning the World Cup, but losing to Trinidad & Tobago along the way would be the perfect scenario for Chris Birchall.

Birchall, born and bred in England, became the first white man in 60 years to play for the Caribbean country when he made his debut last year.

"Of course I would love to beat England, but for us to win the tournament is unrealistic really, so if England go on to win the World Cup as well, then that would be my dream," Birchall said.

"I am looking forward to the England game the most and hopefully I can give a good account of myself."

Trinidad, who start their campaign against Sweden in Dortmund on Saturday, play England in their second Group B game in Nuremberg on June 15. They face Paraguay in Kaiserslauteren on June 20 in their last group match.

Birchall, who plays in midfield with English third division club Port Vale, is on the brink of completing a World Cup fairytale.

The 22 year-old qualifies to play for the islanders via his mother. She was born there after her parents emigrated, but returned to England when she turned 18.

"I have to take it as if it will never happen again and enjoy the moment because it is a once in a lifetime experience," Birchall said.

"All three games are going to be the highlight of my career. To play against the players that I will play against is just massive."

Birchall has become a mainstay of the side since Trinidad & Tobago defender Dennis Lawrence approached him during a league match.

"I was wondering what this big, six foot something guy wants with me. Had I done something wrong?" Birchall explained.

"But he just asked if I had any Trinidad blood in me and that was that really. I made my debut for Trinidad in May 2005 and now here I am."

Birchall said he has been fully accepted by the Trinidad players and fans, but is also proud of the country in which he was born.

"Trinidad have put the faith in me and I love the country now," he said.

"But just like most of my close family and friends, I want to do well myself for Trinidad here, but at the same time I hope England can go all the way."

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