RICKY Holmes is celebrating his call up to the England C squad.

The Chelmsford City winger, who lives in Westcliff, has been selected in a 16-man group for the International Challenge Trophy clash with Wales later on this month.

And the 20-year-old is already excited at meeting up with the rest of the side - which is made up of players who ply their trade outside the Football League.

"I'm absolutely delighted by this," said Holmes.

"It wasn't something I had even considered could happen and was just concentrating on helping Chelmsford do well in the Ryman League.

"Because of that, it's all come as a bit of a shock but of course I'm really pleased especially as they normally only pick players from the Blue Square Premier who are in full-time training."

The match takes place at Exeter City's St James Park ground on Wednesday 20 February, kicking off at 7.45pm.

But before that big night, Holmes is focused on helping Chelmsford continue their quest for promotion from the Premier Division.

The former White Ensign and Southend Manor winger, who attended Prittlewell High School, has helped the Clarets race 15 points clear at the top of the table and is desperate to win promotion.

"That's been the target all year and we're on track at the moment," he said.

"It's going really well and we're all very happy."

Holmes has played a key part in City's success and, while he remains committed to the cause, he is also keen to work his way into the Football League.

The diminutive forward was with Southend United in his youth and has been linked with a move back to Blues as well as Crystal Palace and Colchester United in recent seasons.

His sparkling form has continued to attract interest and he would one day like to make the step up to the professional game.

"My next target is to become a Football League player," he said.

"I thought that may come before this call-up but I'll keep working hard and we have Southend soon in the final of the Essex Senior Cup so hopefully I can show them what I can do."