A BIRCHWOOD college student and Warrington Wolves academy player is going from strength to strength in his rugby career.

Connor Wrench, a year 13 pupil, was honoured to be chosen as captain of England Academy for their international game against Wales U19s in Llanelli.

The youngster has featured in all but two of the Warrington Wolves 25 games, and his exceptional performances saw him named Joint Player of the Year at the recent club awards dinner.

Darren Geritas from Woolston Rovers, who coached Connor as a young player, said: "It is a fantastic honour for Connor to captain his country and everybody at Woolston are delighted for him.

"You could tell from a very early age that he had something very special about him and he is proving that now.

"He only turned eighteen a fortnight ago and I am certain that he is only going to get better.

"Hopefully we will see him wearing the primrose and blue in Super League in the not too distant future and full international honours are certainly within his capabilities over the next few years."

Connor and the team won the game against Wales with Connor bagging himself a hat trick of tries.