STANLEY'S promising midfielder Andy Procter is gutted after missing his big chance of an England debut - because of an exam.

The youngster was hoping to join Peter Cavanagh in the England National Game XI for the Four Nations competition in Scotland.

He got a call off manager Paul Fairclough at 11pm on Tuesday night following England's 3-2 loss to Ireland to join the squad for last night's game against Wales and Sunday's clash with Scotland.

"I thought "get in there" I was so excited," said the 20-year-old who is in his final year of a Sports Science degree at Leeds University.

"Then when I asked when he said "tomorrow" and "Could I get to Aberdeen?" I couldn't believe it. If it had been Bradford or somewhere I would have been there like a shot but that's as far as you can get! I have got my final exam on Monday and all the flights had gone and the train would have taken nine hours.

"I did consider re-sitting the exam and I asked the university if I could. I thought they would say some time next week but they said September - and that I couldn't graduate. I was gutted! England manager, Paul Fairclough, was good about it - he said never mind, wished me good luck in my exam and said I would probably get an opportunity next year. I can't revise, though, for thinking about it. I would have loved to have been a part of it."

It is even worse as Procter missed his first chance of an England call-up in February because he was injured.

"I just can't believe it. It's just not destined to be this season but I hope I get another opportunity."

Boss John Coleman said: "It would have been nice for Andy but I am sure he will get another chance."

Procter is expected to sign a new Stanley contract when his exams are over next week.

Meanwhile, Cavanagh injured his calf 15 minutes into his third England cap - but this was after playing a part in the first goal. The Stanley skipper's free kick sent Morecambe's Garry Thompson through and he set up captain Steve Guinan on seven minutes.

Cavanagh hobbled off and the Irish equalised and then scored two goals in a minute after the break. Guinan got one back but England lost - a disappointing start to the defence of their title. Cavanagh needed treatment on Wednesday and it was unsure if he would make the final two games.

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