A YOUNG man with a rare condition, who has dreams of playing football for England, has launched a fundraiser to get a new wheelchair.

Ismail Patel, 19, has been playing football since he was just 11.

The Astley Bridge resident has the rare genetic condition Pompe Disease and uses a powerchair, but this has not stopped him from succeeding in the sport. He even trains every day in Smithills to hone his skills.

Mr Patel said: "Playing football is important to me as it gives me independence and always gives me something to strive for.

"It is my livelihood and I am always looking forward to playing and my next challenge.

Not only does he play for powerchair football club, Bolton Bullets, he has also made a name for himself on a national stage, playing matches for Nottingham.

Mr Patel aims to go for his goal of playing for England one day.

He said: "My footballing aspirations are to get promoted to the premiership in the national league and I would love to one day play for England which is a life goal of mine and definitely on the bucket list."

Mr Patel says that the only thing holding him back is his outdated powerchair.

Mr Patel says he has asked charities for help with the cost of a modern powerchair, but his efforts have been unsuccessful so far.

He is now trying to raise £7,660 to afford a new powerchair. So far he has achieved £946 towards his goal.

Mr Patel said: "During a game, the chair would give me the independence to not have as much help from the coach as my hand constantly falls off my current chair due to the design.

"Also it would enable me to compete at a higher level as everyone else has the newer chair they are running circles around me even though I know I have the ability to more than match them with technique and skill.

If you would like to donate, head to https://www.gofundme.com/ismails-football-wheelchair.