AT the age of 31, Adam Endersby thought his chance at playing international rugby league again was over, writes Dale Harris.

So he was very surprised to get a call telling him he had been called up to the 36-man England Lions training squad.

The York Acorn ARLC prop said: “I was shocked.

“I didn’t think I would get another opportunity so when I got the call I was buzzing that people had taken notice of my hard work.”

Endersby, who last played for the then Great Britain Community Lions side in 2007, added: “I have to thank my coach Scott Rhodes.

“Scott is the best coach I’ve worked with. I get a really good vibe off him. He gets the best out of the players and he makes me feel an important player. I’ve got a lot to thank him for.”

The prop was one of two players nominated to Lions and Wath Brow Hornets director of rugby Ian Rooney by Rhodes.

The forward moved to York at the age of 13 and has played for the Blue and Golds ever since. He was a big performer in the team last season, winning eight man-of-the-match awards.

Endersby said: “Thanks go to my training partner Stuart Garrington because I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been in.

“I’m playing my best rugby ever and I aim to take my game to another level.

“It’s a really good squad so I need to keep playing well to try to earn my place in the playing squad.”

Last season the Thanet Road club were promoted to the National Conference premier division, finishing in third position level on points with both second-placed Lock Lane and winners Egremont Rangers.

The side are aiming for another good year.

Said Endersby: “We’re currently in pre-season training and it’s going brilliantly.

“I think the club’s in the best position it’s ever been in and has some good people on board.

“We’ve got a good young squad and we’ll be right up there this season.”