James from Ross steps out for Euro final

1:00pm Thursday 3rd July 2008

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THIS was the moment when James Payne lived every footballer fan’s dream.

The youngster from Ross-on- Wye succeeded where England failed by having a starring role in the Euro 2008 final in Vienna.

James, aged 11, became an official player mascot after winning a competition through sponsors, McDonalds.

And he clearly has a winning streak, as he got to walk on to the pitch with Spanish winner and player of the tournament Xavi Hernandez.

James – who walked alongside the Barcelona star and behind goalscorer Fernando Torres – called the experience amazing but admitted to some nerves beforehand.

“Knowing that Joe, my coach, was in the crowd and my friends were watching at home gave me confidence,” he said.

“It was so brilliant being on the pitch with Xavi and some of the greatest players in the world.”