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THE captain of a Scottish youth football team has been banned from a UK-wide competition - because she's a girl.

Shattered Alyshia Walker won't be allowed to play in the home nations showpiece at Birmingham City's stadium because English FA rules prohibit mixed teams.

The 13-year-old Bathgate Academy pupil made history as the first female in a Scottish Youth Football Association Challenge Cup-winning side.

Not only is she the West Lothian under-13 side Fauldhouse Foxes' star striker but - despite being the only girl in the team - she's also skipper.

Alyshia has banged in more than 50 goals in just 21 games so far this season and has won caps for Scotland at under-15 level.

She was voted the best player in a 3-0 win to qualify for the four nations Tesco Cup play-offs in Birmingham.

Now she's been banned - but has been told she can take part in the warm-up and the coin toss.

Last night, Alyshia said: "It's so disappointing. I'm very upset.

"We've got a great team but this is a big blow. They should really change the rules. But if I don't get to play I'll definitely go down to the finals and support the team."

Mum Christine said: "She's really gutted. And I'm angry. Alyshia lives for her football. I don't think it's fair."

Scotland allows girls to play mixed football until age 15. England are considering a rule change - but too late for Alyshia.

Furious Fauldhouse Foxes club secretary Ina Meek said: "It's a kids' game of football, not a professional tournament.

"It's a shame. It is also a huge blow to our chances of lifting the trophy."

David Little, secretary of the Scottish Youth Football Association, said: "Personally I'm absolutely gutted by the whole thing. We are 100 per cent behind Alyshia and the club."

Iain Shaw, secretary of the West Lothian AYFC, said: "Two guys lost their jobs with Sky for making sexist comments - is this any different? It's scandalous."