England star Kieran Trippier is to be awarded the freedom of the Borough of Bury, the defender's hometown, following his World Cup performances.

Trippier became only the third English player to score in a World Cup semi-final, after Bobby Charlton in 1966 and Gary Lineker in 1990, when he beat Croatia's Danijel Subasic with a free kick.

It was Trippier first ever international goal and was the peak of a thoroughly impressive World Cup which saw him rival the likes of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe for chances created in Russia.

Town hall chief Rishi Shori confirmed at a council meeting that he will now nominate Trippier for the rare honour, the highest civilian honour he council is able to bestow.

After the meeting Councillor Shori said: "Kieran and his England team mates have given a huge amount of joy for local people with their incredible performances during the World Cup.

“To reach the semi-final for only the third time in England's history is an amazing achievement. I was nine years the old the last time it happened - I am a lot older now!

“Kieran himself was outstanding, scoring a penalty in the shoot out with Colombia and of course that unforgettable free kick again Croatia. He is now only the third Englishman to have scored in a World Cup semi and certainly the first from Bury!"

Cllr Shori added: "He deserves to be acknowledged. He is a huge role model to younger people and hopefully can inspire the next generation of footballers in Bury."

Previous reciptiants include paralympian Zoe Robinson, Jill Neville, mother of former England footballers Gary and Phil, Oscar-winning director Danny Boyle and band Elbow.

Trippier would become just the 28th person to be honoured since 1899.