Gabriano Jabez Shelton, 9, attended Burnley's Elite Training Centre for a trial within two days of being spotted at our trial last week...

The central midfielder, who lives in Cyprus, flew over to England especially to attend our trials in Birmingham and Manchester after finding out about UK Football Trials online.

Despite playing with other players up to the age of 14, Gabriano was one of the standout players in his group and had his details taken by three clubs over the two days, two of whom are in the Premier League. 

On Friday 28th October, just two days after Burnley saw him in Manchester, Gabriano was training with their u10's in the academy. 

Tom Reeves, Burnley Head of Academy Recruitment, revealed what he liked about the Cypriot midfielder and how he faired at the academy.

"He came in and did well even though he was ill," said Tom, "At the trial he caught my eye with his technical ability and good decisions despite being the youngest in the group." 

He added: "Some of his skills were frightening for a boy his age. We are going to keep in touch with the family and it looks like he could be coming back to England in the new year when we will see him again."

Gabriano, who currently plays for professional side Apoel FC in Cyprus, scored 33 goals last season from midfield and was also recently selected for the Cyprus Elite Team. 

His Father, Enrico, said: "Gabriano enjoyed his trial with Burnley, he was a bit nervous at first but once he got into the training he was fine. We got a message from Tom after the trial with good feedback about how he performed.

"He was very excited to hear that he would be going in to train with the club, the chance to go into a Premier League club was amazing for him."

Speaking about their UK Football Trials experience, Enrico said: "It was very good, the coaching was of a high standard and the report from the coach was great - it's been very helpful and he is already working on the areas that the coach pointed out to him."

He added: "We are so grateful for the opportunity UK Football Trials have given us and the platform they gave Gabriano to show his talents."

Footballing ability clearly runs in the family, as Burnley have also expressed an interest in seeing Gabriano's younger brother play the next time they are in the UK.

Congratulations to Gabriano on a successful trial with us! Any clubs interested in seeking his details, please contact us with the details at the top of the page. He and his family will be moving back to the UK in the February/March next year.