Turning out for your country is always an honour and Fejiri Okenabirhie has certainly seized his moment with the Three Lions on his chest.

The Dagenham & Redbridge striker has starred for England C since making his debut last year – most notably bagging a hat-trick in a 3-2 win over Wales C in March.

His performances saw him voted FA England C player of the year at Wednesday’s National Game Awards, in association with SCL, at Stamford Bridge.

And the Hendon-born frontman revealed he had never expected the honour, which was presented to him on the day by England C boss Paul Fairclough.

“Obviously, playing for the England C team, to start with, that’s a good achievement,” said the 22-year-old.

“To be voted the best player this season; I never really expected it but I’m really glad that I won it – I’m proud and I’m really happy about it.

“I got a hat-trick against Wales this season, which was really special. Scoring three goals doesn’t happen often, so to get it, I’m really proud.

“It’s always nice to be recognised for your performances. You want to do well for whatever team you’re playing for but to be individually recognised is something that any player would want.

“I’m really grateful for this award. To win this award just tops it off.”

Okenabirhie started his career as a junior at Stevenage and enjoyed loan spells at Bedford Town, Farnborough, Cambridge City and Royston Town.

He moved to Isthmian League Premier Division side Harrow Borough in 2015 before switching to the Daggers.

And two seasons on, he has 19 goals at club level, form which saw him called up by Fairclough.

He has since emerged as a talent in Fairclough’s ranks, and revealed his enjoyment at getting called up to the national side.

“From when I first played last year, I’ve really enjoyed it,” he said. “Every time I’ve been away with them, I’ve really enjoyed the training and you really get looked after as well.

“Paul and Mick [Payne, coach] are always great. All of the games we’ve played are always competitive, so it’s always a great experience and I always look forward to it.”

SCL are one of the UK’s leading independent providers of education through sport for 16-18 year-olds. SCL deliver Academy programmes across football, rugby and cricket, in partnership with more than 70 professional, private and grassroots sports clubs, foundations and community trusts. Find out more at www.wearescl.co.uk/education