COLCHESTER'S Darren Mitchell believes he is "knocking on the door" in terms of selection for England's national amputee team after shining in two friendlies against Greece.

The 29-year-old has just returned from Athens where he starred for the Three Lions' development side - which feeds into the senior side - in 4-0 and 5-0 victories.

Mitchell is no stranger to international action, having played at the 2007 Amputee World Championships, in Turkey, and also the 2011 World Cup, in Argentina.

However, he drifted away from the sport and has only returned earlier this year following encouragement from his wife and children.

He admits he has ground to make up after a seven-year absence but hopes to forge his way back in time for next year’s tournaments, including the World Cup and European Championships.

"We played Greece in Athens on Friday night and won 4-0," said Mitchell, who had to have his right leg amputated in 2007.

"I scored the third goal with my first and only shot of the game.

"On Saturday we then played Greece in Athens again and this time we won 5-0.

"I got another goal, as well as two assists, and it was probably one of my best international performances.

"I started both games on the left wing and was really happy to play my part in two good team performances.

"On a personal note I’ve lost a stone in weight and although I still have more to go, I'm knocking on the door for the senior squad for next season."

Mitchell, who grew up in Dovercourt and used to play for Ipswich Town’s Pan-Disability team, will be hoping to shine again later this month when England's development side play old enemy Scotland in Largs.