LUKE DeGilbert is preparing to fulfil every football fan’s dream by pulling on the shirt of the team he supports next month.

The 21-year-old Newport County AFC fan, who has autism, usually plays as a striker for Newport Dragons Disabilities FC.

But on September 22 he will be captaining the Exiles in a special tournament to raise awareness of mental health issues.

The tournament takes place on the 3G pitches at the PlayFootball centre in Bettws, Newport, and DeGilbert is looking forward to pulling on a County shirt.

“I can’t wait for it,” he said. “Everyone is excited to be part of it to and I am excited to show fans what I’m about and enjoy my football.

“I think it’s a good cause to be doing it for and there is a cup to win as well.

“Training is going really well – I have got seven goals and we’re all training hard ready for September 22.

“The coaches like Norman Parselle have done well with us and I think it’s amazing to be part of the squad.”

But DeGilbert will not just be part of the squad, he will lead out the team.

“I am very proud to captain the team and it will make me feel nervous at first before games start but I am confident and buzzing for it,” he added.

“To captain the team is going to be amazing.”

DeGilbert has enjoyed a successful time with the Newport Dragons over the past year.

“I got a medal and an outstanding achievement award at our presentation night, which was for the hard work I have put in,” he said.

“My aims for season is to do well and force myself into the Welsh team and just enjoy my football and work hard and try to score as many goals as I can.”

Off the pitch DeGilbert will also be appearing on the radio.

“I will be doing some radio work with a presenter called Tim Compton,” he explained.

“I will be talking about football and how to promote disability sport.

“I think it will be great opportunity to do some radio work and it will be enjoyable and I hope to go on a media course as well.”