CHERRIES first-team coach Stephen Purches admitted collecting his UEFA Pro Licence qualification had been a "special occasion".

Purches attended a graduation ceremony hosted by Sky's Hayley McQueen at St George's Park yesterday, having completed 18 months of graft centred around various aspects of coaching.

In finishing the course, the 38-year-old attained the highest qualification in football management.

The award is mandatory for those who wish to manage in the Premier League and among the graduates were ex-Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic, James Beattie, David James, Nicky Butt and Jason Euell.

Purches told the Daily Echo: "It was a special occasion and they made a real effort to make you feel you had achieved something.

"The course opens your eyes to many aspects of leadership in and outside of football."

As part of the course, Purches attended last summer's European Under-21 Championship where he watched England in action.

Gareth Southgate was involved throughout Purches's study period and the Three Lions boss sent graduates a congratulatory message from the Three Lions' World Cup training base.

Purches was promoted to the role of first-team coach in February last year, following a stint in charge of the club's under-21s side.