Jay Thorne has taken his first major step towards a professional football career by signing for Welsh side Newport County in League Two.

The 13-year-old winger, who was born and lives in Wales, attended both of our training and trials camps in April and August and received interest from a number of clubs on each occasion.

In May we brought you the news that Jay was on trial with AFC Wimbledon and had five other clubs waiting in the wings.

And shortly after our August camp, Jay was put forward for a trial with Newport County, following some more one-to-one work with UK Football Trials’ coach Ash Hopkins.

Watch Jay's highlights from the trial, here https://youtu.be/cbwetvoNwjU 

“We’re really happy,” said Jay’s mum, Dawn.

“He did about four weeks of trials there and then at his review they said they’d like to sign him as part of the squad, he was absolutely thrilled.”

She added: “It’s a big relief to be honest, trials can be horrible, not knowing what they’re thinking or how well you’re doing, but hopefully he can grow with the club now.

“The whole team have been really friendly and helped him settle in.”

Jay will be joined at the club by good friend Nico, who he met at the UK Football Trials Camp is also set to sign for Newport soon.

Dawn said: “It’s great Nico will be there as well and Jay will have a friendly face at the club.

“We just want to say thanks to Ash, he’s been amazing and has taught Jay a lot.”

Everyone at UK Football Trials would like to congratulate Jay on this great news and wish him good luck in the future.