Attending our event after moving to the UK from Nigeria, 14-year-old goalkeeper Kojusoluwa Abayomi was scouted by London based Premier League club Crystal Palace.

When talking with Kojusoluwa, he explained to us his football history: “I’ve never played for a professional team or had trials.” He said.

“I played football in Nigeria at grassroots level, I started off as an outfielder but later became a goalkeeper as I felt more comfortable in this position.”

Curious as to why he chose to attend our event, Koju explained: “I was recommended UK Football Trials by my friends, they had attended previously and said that it was a good set up and well ran. Because of this, I thought I would try my luck and see what happens.”

“I thought the trial was very good despite the weather being very cold and wet. I feel like I played well and impressed scouts.”

Once Koju was scouted, we asked him to talk us through what happened next, he told us: “After being scouted, Crystal Palace invited me to play in the elite development squad. I went along and played and it was a good experience.”

“A few days after the match, the scout contacted my parents via email telling them that he wanted to monitor me with my local club so they are going to attend some of my games.”

“I personally don’t think I performed very well during the match with Crystal Palace. I think I could have played much better but I must have done something right if they have opted to monitor me.”

“They explained that the reason they chose to monitor me is because they feel that I’m not fully physically developed just yet, so over the next year they are going to watch how I grow.”

UK Football Trials would like to congratulate Koju and wish him the best of luck with his football whilst he is being monitored by Crystal Palace.