England have won the World Cup.

Again.

And 58-year-old Scouser Kevin Mooney and former Everton winger Peter Beagrie were integral members of the successful Three Lions squad!

This is not some surreal dream. It is the Seniors World Cup in Thailand.

And after claiming that last year's successful appearance - his third - would be his last, former Tranmere player Mooney couldn't resist one last foray in the tournament for veterans aged 38 and over.

And the gruelling training regiment was worthwhile with England retaining the trophy for a third successive year.

England kicked off with group stage victories over Scotland (2-1), New Zealand (2-1) and Taiwan 4-1.

The England squad featuring former Blues star Peter Beagrie (front row, fifth from right)
The England squad featuring former Blues star Peter Beagrie (front row, fifth from right)

In the semi-final Iran were toppled 4-0 before a rematch with rivals Scotland in the World Cup final, this time England running out 4-0 winners.

Anfield-born Kevin was joined by fellow Scousers Alex Russell, Stephen King and Dave Galloway and former Blues star Peter Beagrie in the England squad and Kevin said: "I am ever so proud of what we have achieved during the past eight years.

"It is always an honour to represent your country.

Kevin Mooney with another World Cup winners' medal.
Kevin Mooney with another World Cup winners' medal.

"But we also visited schools in Thailand, gave out gifts and held training sessions for the kids which was such a humbling experience. The kids make you feel so special."

The tournament was first held in 2006 as part of the process to re-establish tourism in Thailand following the devastating earthquake and tsunami in the Indian Ocean in 2004.

It is organised by the Seniors Football Association of Thailand and supported by the Thai Football Association.

Kevin Mooney proudly shows off the World Cup
Kevin Mooney proudly shows off the World Cup

The annual tournament was held for the 13th consecutive year and brought together eight teams of ex-professionals and former amateur footballers from four different continents.

England have now won the trophy four times, including three years in a row.

The youngest players who can take part are 38 years old.

Kevin Mooney on one of his 'humbling' school visits
Kevin Mooney on one of his 'humbling' school visits

This was the eighth consecutive Seniors World Cup for defender Mooney, who played for Tranmere for two seasons in the early 1980s.

Mooney also played for Bury, Bangor City and Swedish club FK Karlskrona.