Charlie Mapes today revealed his delight at being called up for the England semi-professional side.

The Crawley midfielder has been selected in a provisional 30-man squad to travel to Italy to play a Serie C representative side on November 10.

The squad, which is made up of players under 23, will get whittled down to 16 in two weeks' time.

Mapes, 22, said: "It was such a thrill when Francis (Vines) phoned me and said I had been called-up for the initial squad.

"I'm now aiming to get into the 16-man squad because I will be so proud to represent my country.

"If I get selected it will be the first time I have played at international level. I was once picked for the Wales under-17s side, because I also qualify for them, but I had an injury and didn't make it."

Mapes' call-up comes after a string of impressive performances for Reds following his summer move from Wycombe Wanderers.

The former Tottenham trainee, who has played every game for Reds in the Conference this season, insists the best is still yet to come from him.

He said: "I have been really enjoying my football since I came here. It is great to get recognition from outside the club for your performances, but I feel I have even more to offer and that the team can improve as well."