An eighth-tier English football club has been forced to cancel a scheduled fixture due to several players receiving international call-ups. Lancing, a team based in West Sussex, was set to play against Three Bridges in the South East Division of the Isthmian League. However, midfielder Knory Scott and forward Luke Robinson were both called up to represent Bermuda in the Concacaf Nations League, where they would be playing against Dominica, over 3,500 miles away.
In addition to Scott and Robinson, two other Lancing squad members, Charlie Gibson and Sam Bull, will be participating in the World Minifootball Federation U23 World Cup in Croatia, playing for England in a six-a-side tournament. Expressing his frustration, Lancing chairman Barry Sutton described the situation as unprecedented for a club at their level, noting that while having one player called up last year was a cause for celebration, having four players unavailable simultaneously was unheard of.
Currently positioned 20th in the league with four points from their first eight games, Lancing is experiencing their highest level of play in the club’s history since its establishment in 1941. Sutton praised Scott and Robinson, highlighting their talent and positive impact on the team, with Scott being described as a “lovely lad” and Robinson having experience at higher-level clubs. The chairman also mentioned the pride felt by the club in having international players like Scott and Robinson, with a Bermuda flag displayed at their home matches.
The unexpected absence of key players due to international commitments poses a challenge for Lancing as they navigate the demands of their league fixtures. Despite the setback, the club remains determined to continue their season and strive for success in the Isthmian League.