Let the imagination wander, unlock that inventive streak and allow the words to flow. Just make sure that it is somehow football related and we will pick out as many as possible.

As a challenge, we’re inviting 13–15 year-old girls and boys to write a story about a fictional character who joins up with the Republic of Ireland squad. Tell us what happens in about 500 words.

A parent or guardian should email the story to football@fightingwords.ie

Don’t forget to include the author's name and age. The deadline for submissions is June 30