The next Monday, as Will walked through the school gates, the playground seemed a lot less noisy than usual. “Hey Steve!” he said. “Where is everyone today?” “There’s a flu bug going round,” said Steve. “Some of the football team have got it. Mr Smith is holding trials to get a team out for this weekend’s match. There’s a notice up in the main hall.” Will’s mind raced. Maybe this would be his big chance. If he could get in the team for one game, he could play so well they would have to keep him in the side, even after everyone had got better from the flu. “How many players are away?” he asked Steve. “Four or five,” said Steve. “So they can’t just make do with the usual subs.” “Cool,” said Will. “I’m going to go and sign up. See you in English.” Will hurried off to the hall to find the notice. He saw Steve’s name and a few others on the list. He hoped there wouldn’t be so many others he’d miss out again. Mr Smith had called a practice that afternoon.
