FOOTBALL-mad Nathaniel Smith looks set to achieve every young Liverpool fan's dream and meet his matchday heroes.

Brave little Nathaniel, of Densham Avenue, Longford, who is recovering from a brain tumour, is in line to rub shoulders with Anfield's finest - with help from nurses at Walton Hospital's Neuro-Centre.

The angels are so impressed with the youngster's quiet courage they were attempting to secure the dream trip for Nathaniel as the GUARDIAN went to press.

But friends and relatives hope the 10-year-old - whose hero is Michael Owen - is more than a match for his next big fixture, as he has radiotherapy to help overcome his cancer.

The Long Lane Primary pupil's fascination with the Kop kings helped him pull through painful operations and will hopefully see him return to his school soccer side, where he plays in goal or up front, after treatment.

Ambulance drivers taking Nathaniel to hospital even made a detour so they could stop off outside Liverpool's Anfield ground and he could see the famous Shankly Gates.

And while the little battler was in intensive care, a poster of Michael Owen watched over his bed.

He even has his own Michael Owen - the rat that is. The nippy rodent was presented to him while he was recovering from a broken nose, accidentally suffered during a kickabout.

Step-dad, David Donoghue, said: "He is amazing - that is why people are rallying around for him."

Mum, Marie Smith, added: "He is a brave lad and this Liverpool trip will be like a dream come true for him."

She also paid tribute to staff at the neuro centre and Clatterbridge Hospital for helping her son through his ordeal.

Relatives, friends and neighbours have all been keeping a watchful eye on never-say-quit Nathaniel's progress.

The Reverend Peter Marshall and his wife, Maggie, of St Marks Church, where Nathaniel also plays football, has also been in close contact.

Supporters are now planning a series of fundraisers for Walton Hospital with a benefit concert planned at the Gasworks Club, Winwick Road, on March 27.

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