MISSING the World Cup would be any football fan s nightmare. Yet even though sailor Aaron Goodwin will be at sea with the Royal Navy when this year s competition kicks off on June 11, he will be able to stay one kick ahead. Sub Lieutenant Goodwin, a forme

MISSING the World Cup would be any football fan's nightmare.

Yet even though sailor Aaron Goodwin will be at sea with the Royal Navy when this year's competition kicks off on June 11, he will be able to stay one kick ahead.

Sub Lieutenant Goodwin, a former Neale Wade student, will be able to cheer on England while he serves on HMS Kent thanks to the installation of a hi-tech television receiver.

The 22-year-old and his colleagues will be given time off to watch the games and posed with a giant football shirt this week to show who he will be supporting.

Sub Lt Goodwin said: "I'm really looking forward to getting behind our boys at the World Cup.

"We've been told we will be able to watch the games while at sea. There will be a great party atmosphere onboard all the time we keep winning."

Lt Verity Fane-Bailey, from HMS Kent, added: "We are due to be at sea for some of the World Cup but we have just had a new receiver fitted that allows us to get more television channels and a good reception.

"I'm sure Aaron and the crew will be able to take some time off to watch the football and show their support for the team. It should be great for morale."

Sub Lt Goodwin posed with the giant 50ft long England shirt on HMS Kent this week to show his support for the team, which plays its first game on June 12 against the USA.

His support has been welcomed from, among others, England boss Fabio Capello.

The national team manager said: "The passion of England supporters is tremendous.

"Their desire to follow us around the world and to really get behind the team is very important. It makes us a stronger team.