By Martin Morgan

Last updated 11:41, Wednesday, 11 June 2008

THREE west Cumbrian youngsters will turn out for BARLA Great Britain Under-23s against hosts Italy today.

Kyle Lofthouse: Hoping to do an Italian job today

Egremont’s Reece Davies, Kyle Lofthouse of Ellenborough and Kells’ Scott Lofthouse have earned selection, while a second Egremont starlet, Richard Farrer, is expected to face a French Select side on Friday.

Gary Charlton, the ex-Town and Haven forward, who will be in joint charge today, is delighted with his appointment.

“It’s great to be involved with BARLA, coaching the cream of the crop,” he said. “By all accounts, Italy weren’t so hot last year, but I believe players have since been brought in from overseas.

“As long as we are prepared for the game, that’s all we can worry about. I’d like to congratulate all the lads picked to play.”

The Brits will field two teams in the Simone Franchini International Nines over the weekend, with Charlton, sponsored by Copeland Fluid Power and Savvy Hairdressers, taking charge of one.

Any youngsters who catch the eye on the mini-tour could earn a place in the GB open age squad to tour the southern hemisphere next year.

Meanwhile, Ellenborough veteran Eddie Robinson has been named joint skipper of Cumbria for the forthcoming tour to Australia, alongside Graham Lupton of Millom.

“He’s captained us lately and oozes confidence,” said Ellenborough chairman Wilson Smith.

“He’s a born leader, and I’m sure a lot of young players will benefit from playing alongside him in Australia.”

The tour squad comprises 16 Under-19s and 15 open-age players from clubs across the county.

Coached by Martin Oglanby and Jonty Gorley, the party leaves on June 20 and returns on July 12.