Workington Reds star Jake Simpson has a personal interest in cheering on England Under-20s in their final World Cup group game today.

His dad, former Carlisle United manager Paul Simpson, is in charge of the next generation of stars out in South Korea.

Jake admitted he was very proud of his dad’s achievements and hopes England can make it through to the knockout stages of the competition.

England only need a point in Suwon against the host nation to qualify, and even a defeat could see the Young Lions qualify as one of the four highest ranked third-placed teams.

“I’m extremely proud of my dad, to be working with an England national team at that level,” said Jake.

“I’m really proud of what he has achieved so far. The tournament started well with four points from two games and, if you had offered that at the start, he would have taken it.

“It was a good 3-0 win against Argentina before, in slightly disappointing circumstances, a 1-1 draw against Guinea.”

Jake has been in constant contact with his dad, who led Carlisle United to two successive promotions. They spoke after the Guinea draw, where an unfortunate own-goal prevented an England win.

“I spoke to him after the game and he was in good spirits and really positive about their chances,” added Jake.

“It will be a different game against South Korea who have already picked up two wins but Argentina ran them close.

“It will be a good game but they will definitely have to be on their guard.”

There is another Cumbrian connection in the England Under-20 squad with Whitehaven-born goalkeeper Dean Henderson, who played in the Guinea game on Tuesday.

Jake added: “Dean played in goal against Guinea and its great to have a Cumbrian presence. Hopefully, he will continue to do well both for England and in his own career.”

Today’s match kicks-off at noon BST and will be shown on British Eurosport.