A YOUNG footballer has been picked from thosuands of hopefuls to lead the teams on to the pitch for England's friendly this Saturday against Sweden.

Blackburn Rovers' Matt Jansen may not be stepping on to the turf, but seven-year-old Thomas Burrows will be.

The young Rovers fan will lead Sweden's players on to Manchester United's Old Trafford after being picked as one of two mascots.

And for Thomas, of Feniscowles, the chance to meet his sporting heroes is a dream come true.

The Feniscowles Primary School pupil, was given the once in a lifetime chance after winning a contest run by Sky TV's Goal's on Sunday show.

In the first competition of its kind, Thomas correctly guessed the number of goals David Beckham had scored for England this season.

Thomas' dad Neil, a training instructor in engineering with Blackburn-based training 2000, said: "We got a call saying Thomas had been picked. He can't wait."

Thomas will be lead the Swedish team on to the pitch with a second local mascot, Gemma Ryan, from Bury. Mascots chosen by a Swedish television show will lead the England players.

Neil said: "He is smitten with football. He likes David Beckham, just like any other child does. And Michael Owen too. He is really hoping that they will be playing."