Former Linnets favourite plays in Senior World Cup

Former King’s Lynn Town favourite Dean West is expected to pull on an England shirt once again this week at the Senior World Cup in Thailand.West, a stalwart for the Linnets between 2005 and 2008, made 143 appearances and scored three goals during his time at The Walks.He also stepped into a managerial role in late 2006, teaming up with Shaun Carey as caretaker manager for a nine-game spell in charge.Now 51, the ex-Linnet and Lincoln City right-sided defender is currently in Pattaya City representing England in the prestigious veterans’ tournament, which runs until Saturday.This year marks his second consecutive appearance, having helped England to a 1-0 victory over New Zealand in last year’s final in Bangkok, securing their seventh title since the competition’s launch in 2006.“I’m really excited to be taking part in this tournament once again and hopefully we can go there and retain our title,” said West, speaking to weareimps.com“It’s a fantastic competition, with some good teams involved, including two newcomers in the United States and Uruguay.” West, who played more than 120 games across two spells for Lincoln City, was first introduced to the tournament by fellow former pros Paul Rickers and Ian Cox. As in 2024, he will travel to Thailand with a suitcase full of Lincoln City shirts, donated by the club’s kit manager, Terry Bourne, to gift to local children.“I’m really grateful to the support shown by everyone at Lincoln City. With the donated shirts, we’re able to promote the club across the world,” West added.“Finally, I’d like to say a special thank you to my sponsor, the White Hart Hotel, for their incredible support. It promises to be another unforgettable event and I’m really proud to be flying the flag for Lincoln City once again.” This year’s tournament features teams from across the globe, including Australia, England, Hong Kong, Iran, New Zealand, Taiwan, Thailand, Uruguay, Vietnam, and the United States.Former Linnets striker Michael Frew – also part of the same Linnets side as West – is also playing in the tournament.With England aiming to defend their title, all eyes will be on the former Linnets duo and their teammates as they kick off their campaign in Pattaya.