Former Premiership Captain Joins The UKFT Team
UK Football Trials are delighted to announce the addition of an ex Premiership captain to the coaching team. Robin van der Laan, who captained Derby County in the First Division and the Premiership, recently coached on our most successful trials week ever in February, helping a massive 43 players get scouted by pro and semi pro clubs. The Dutch midfielder, who is now First Team Coach of semi pro side Newcastle Town, brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience, racking up more than 400 professional appearance between 1987 - 2001. "I'm proud to be part of the UK Football Trials coaching staff as this professional organisation is offering realistic opportunities for players to showcase their talents and abilities to a captive audience," said Robin. "I personally was scouted at 16 years of age back in Holland and fully understand the concept of being fortunate enough to be playing well at the right time when the important people are watching the game.
UK Football Trials are taking all the eventualities and luck elements out of it, the important people including us as coaches will be watching, players just have to perform and shine to the best of their ability during the trials. This concept is very simple, if you are deemed good enough during these trials you will get opportunities." On the addition of Van der Laan to the coaching team, UK Football Trials director Harry Price added: “It’s fantastic to be able to add a coach of Robin’s calibre to our staff. He’s an internationally renowned player who achieved much in his career, including winning at Wembley and scoring at Anfield, as well as leading Derby to promotion as captain. “We’ve already seen the results of the impact Robin’s made, with a record 43 players scouted at our last trial set and we’re hoping his experience and knowledge of the game continue to improve us as a company and the players that attend our trials.” Following his retirement, Robin went on to work as Head International Coach of Manchester United Soccer Schools, before opening his own Soccer School in Canada.