YOUNG hockey sensation Libby Sherriff has been appointed England under-16 captain – a decision she says is amazing . The 15-year-old from Wyddial will lead her country over the Easter weekend, when England take on Holland, Germany, and Spain, in the Fo

YOUNG hockey sensation Libby Sherriff has been appointed England under-16 captain - a decision she says is "amazing".

The 15-year-old from Wyddial will lead her country over the Easter weekend, when England take on Holland, Germany, and Spain, in the Four Nations Invitational Tournament in Barcelona.

The annual event is widely considered a showcase for some of Europe's most talented young hockey players, and a springboard for further international honours.

Libby, taking time out from her GCSE revision, said: "I'm really looking forward to leading the girls out - it will be a great honour and an amazing experience.

"I had no idea that I was going to be made captain, and when I found out I was completely shocked. It's so exciting!"

The gifted youngster follows in a long line of sporting Sheriffs - her grandfather George represented Saracens and England at rugby, and her father Peter also starred for the Saracens.

Libby's mother Sasha said: "We are all incredibly proud, and her granddad is over the moon.

"This is an amazing achievement, and it's fantastic to see her hard work is being recognised."

Libby says her family will be travelling to Barcelona to support her in a tournament she believes will be highly competitive.

Last year England finished bottom of their group, but Libby did manage to net an impressive haul of seven goals.

She said: "It was a disappointing tournament, but hopefully we can do better this year. I would love to lift the trophy and I think we should be aiming to finish third at least.

"It's going to be difficult because the other countries are all very good - particularly Holland.

"However, I do think we have a good chance of winning."

Libby also plays for one of the country's top hockey clubs, Southgate, where captain Camille Ghandi says she is the future of the club.

She added: "Everyone at Southgate is so proud of her. She will make a great captain because she leads by example and always sets the standards.

"She brings so much to any team she is part of and has bundles of vibrancy.

"With Libby as captain I think England will do very well.