TWO non-league goalkeepers in south Essex are on the radar of England C bosses.

Canvey Island’s Conor Gough and Billericay Town’s Jack Giddens have impressed scouts from the international team, which selects the best players outside the Football League under the age of 23.

Mick Payne, the A-licence coach and current England C goalkeeping mentor, has been impressed with what he has seen in south Essex, and says the likes of Gough and Giddens have caught his eye.

Payne was at Canvey Island’s match with Brentwood on Saturday, as well as their match the previous weekend to watch Gough, and says the stopper has all the attributes to be a very good goalkeeper.

“I was at Canvey Island for their match against Farnborough and Conor Gough was excellent in that game,” said Payne. “Goalkeepers that are selected must be exceptional and it is difficult to find good goalkeepers at this level as most of them are older than 23, and those that aren’t are on loan from professional clubs meaning they are ineligible.

“Conor is rough around the edges but he is clearly a goalkeeper with talent and promise. Giddens is another I have heard very good things about. He has performed well consistently this year and I will be going to watch him as well.”

Alex Woodyard and Jamie Butler, both formerly of Concord Rangers, have been selected for the England C team in the past.