Kettering Town have 19-year-old midfielder Alex Koritsas in their U21's side after attending three trials with UK Football Trials.

Alex has left behind his family in Washington, where he was part of the DC United Academy Programme as a youngster, and recently moved to the UK. 

We had several opportunities to see Alex close up, as he came to several trials in both London and Manchester throughout the summer.

Kerry, Alex's father, said: “Alex was studying in Boston initially but then we found UK Football Trials online and he decided he’d like to give it a go,” said Kerry.

“UKFT had someone at the trials who was able to help players looking to move here full time and study alongside their football, so we spoke to them and managed to secure a place at a school in England for Alex. They thought he was at a good enough level that they could put him into Kettering and it’s all just gone from there.”

Alex has been at Kettering for several weeks now and has been playing for the u21’s, while training regularly with the first team.

Swapping Washington for Kettering is sure to be a culture shock for any young footballer, but Alex is already adapting to life in the semi-pro leagues here.

“The biggest difference in the training in England compared to America is the speed of play,” Alex revealed.

“The pace is much faster here but I'm getting up to speed and learning quickly.”

Director of UK Football Trials Harry Price said: "It is great news that Alex has made a successful transition and is now settled at an excellent club.

"At our football trial camps, Alex showed a great attitude on and off the pitch - he was superb in training and caught the eye of our coaches and scouting team, but the big step was the decision for him to school here in the UK."

Harry added: "It is clear that Alex has adapted very well to the new style of English football and to secure a contract is a great achievement. He has a big season ahead and we wish him every success at his new club and look forward to tracking his progress."

Everyone at UK Football Trials would like to congratulate Alex on his move to the UK and earning a place at Kettering. Good luck this season Alex!