The premiere of British football comedy Mike Bassett: England Manager could be the beginning of a glittering career for Hendon footballer Phil Gridelet.

Mr Gridelet, 33, from Watford Way, plays an England star in the film, which opens in cinemas this week.

The former Barnet FC player is now looking at parts in TV shows such as London's Burning and opportunities for sports TV presenting.

The film, which opens across the UK this weekend, stars Ricky Tomlinson as England football manager Mike Bassett, desperately trying to drag his team to the World Cup finals.

"The football world has taken over from pop stars, but the football stuff in this film is more real-life than other films," he said. "If you are a football fan, and the majority of the population seem to be, it could seem quite surreal."

As well as the TV work, Phil is also filling his time playing for Ryman League division one team Bishops Stortford, exploring coaching opportunities at Southend United and running a jewellery business.