Words John Edwards | Pictures Jonathan Moore

JAKE Cooper's consistently outstanding form for Altrincham this season has been rewarded with a call-up to the England C squad to face Wales next week.

The 23-year old centre-back has been a rock at the heart of Alty's defence, whether alongside Lewis Baines or Sam Roscoe or occasionally both, and has helped the Robins make light of skipper James Jones' injury absence.

He has even made his mark at the other end of the pitch, as underlined by the goal that gave Alty a 3-0 lead shortly before half-time on their way to a resounding 6-1 win over York City on Tuesday night.

Now his key contribution to Alty's push for a play-off place has been recognised at international level after England C boss Paul Fairclough called him up to bolster their squad for the friendly with Wales next Tuesday, March 19th.

It is a well-deserved honour for the former Rotherham United defender and another feather in the cap for the Robins, though skipper Isaac Marriott has had to withdraw as the injury picked up against Woking continues to be assessed by Alty's medical staff.

All the best for the game, at Llanelli FC's Stebonheath Park stadium, Jake, and here's hoping you take the step-up in your usual assured stride.