I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to 20 years-old Joel Amado, a Sports Rehabilitation student at the University of Bolton who has been selected to play for the English Universities’ Football Team. 

The left-back will compete in the Home Nations tournament in Cardiff this month, competing against Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

I am delighted that my community is turning out such talents, and am deeply impressed that Joel has been able to balance his studies and representing his nation. This is the Bolton that I love to see, putting us on the forefront of the cultural and sporting map.

It is testament to the University’s facilities and ethos that such success can be bred, and I wish Joel and his teammates the best of luck in the upcoming tournament.