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Video: Porchlight
activity worker Richard Barnard on Matt Evans's preparations for
the Homeless World Cup.

by Adam Williams

The bright lights of Milan await
for a talented footballer from Canterbury, set to represent his
country next month.

But Matt Evans’s road to the
national squad is an unfamiliar one, far away from the glitz and
glamour enjoyed by the Beckhams and Rooneys of this world.

After successfully making his way
through county, regional and national trials, Matt has been
selected as goalkeeper for the England Homeless World Cup squad,
who fly to Italy from September 6 to battle it out for the trophy
with 47 other nations.

It completes a whirlwind couple of
months for the 20-year-old, who has also recently been handed a
contract by Canterbury City FC.

Matt faced an uncertain future
before moving to Kent, suffering violent attacks and living in fear
of being sucked into London’s gang culture.

Coming to Canterbury and without a
place to live, he found himself moving into accommodation supported
by Kent homeless charity Porchlight.

Matt’s skill as a footballer shone
through immediately and with the help of activity worker Richard
Barnard, the journey on the road to Milan began.

Matt said: “Housing is obviously
the main thing Porchlight have done for me, as well as my key
worker being there for me whenever I need them.

“But on top of that, being linked
with the Homeless World Cup and Canterbury City has been the
greatest part of my move away from the violence in London.”

Richard Barnard believes
Matt’s selection is just reward for his hard work and
commitment.

He said: "I am very proud. It was obvious from the start of the
trials, Matt has a great talent for football and I’m glad that has
been recognised.

"Sport has always been an excellent
catalyst to encourage vulnerable people to change their lives for
the better as it gives individuals the confidence and skills to
move forward. Playing for your country couldn’t be a more positive
move."