Many an aspiring footballer in offices across the country dreams of playing in Europe. But for criminal solicitor and part-time player Ian Sheridan, that dream is very much a reality.

Sheridan, whose day job is with Liverpool firm MSB Solicitors, plays left-wing for Welsh League side Bala Town, who have qualified for the Europa League in the forthcoming season.

Last week’s draw saw Bala paired with fellow part-timers FC Differdange 03 of Luxembourg, giving the side a chance of qualification to play Turkish giants Trabzonspor in the second round.

That tie would give Sheridan a crack at playing in a 24,000-capacity stadium up against Portuguese international and former Chelsea full-back Jose Bosingwa. But he might need a quiet word with his boss first.

‘We have to train the night before the match, so I’ve taken the time off as leave for the Luxembourg game,’ explained Sheridan. ‘I used up most of my leave on a honeymoon earlier this year, so if we get through I might have to ask nicely for time off to play.’

The team’s European adventure starts in Luxembourg this Thursday.

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