Erith & Belvedere player-coach Jamie Coyle helps England Veterans clinch the Seniors World Cup at the RMUTT stadium in Patumthani, Thailand with a 1-0 win over holders Iran

Player-coach Jamie Coyle warmed up for pre-season by helping the England seniors to World Cup success.

Coyle - who was player-boss at Ramsgate last season and now assistant at Erith & Belvedere - returns to training on Saturday fresh from helping his country to victory in Thailand.

Turning 40 meant he had a shot at the England seniors team and he’s delighted he took up the offer of representing his country in the Far East.

“It was one of the best experiences I have ever had,” he said, having played in all of England’s matches, including the final against holders Iran which they won 1-0.

“It’s the first time I have been selected because I have only just turned 40. I wasn’t too sure what to expect but it was really professional, a brilliant experience to win it and beat the champions Iran.

“I came back 4.5 kg lighter, I wasn’t expected to play every game, it was 50 degree humidity out there, it was really tough, but I ended up playing every single game, even the friendlies, but it was good and I feel ready for pre-season that’s for sure!”

Former Gillingham player and coach Ian Cox – who was part of the Trinidad and Tobago squad at the 2006 FIFA World Cup – was also involved. He’s now working in the community department at Premier League Bournemouth.

Another ex-Gills player, title-winning striker Deon Burton, also featured. His goals in the semi-final against Australia – including a spectacular overhead kick - sent England through to the final.

Former Portsmouth and Tottenham player Sean Davis and ex-Fulham striker Barry Hayles were also involved.

Coyle said: “Deon did really well at Gills, Sean Davis was an unbelievable player but had a bad injury towards the end of his career and I remember watching Barry Hayles on Match