14-year-old striker Ben Cutts attended our five-day camp from the Isle of Wight and was scouted by League One side Portsmouth.

When talking to Ben’s mother, she explained his footballing history: “Ben had no previous trials before attending your event. He’s been playing since he was around 4, nothing too serious, just some training and stuff like that. Then he starting playing properly at 8-years-old.”

“He started off playing in the Isle of Wight League for Bembridge, where he had two season. He then went to Brading Youth for two years, followed by Oatfield last year and now he plays for Vectis under 14’s, as well as going to play on the mainland every Saturday.” She added.

When asked why he chose to attend our event, both Ben told us: “Because I live on the Isle of Wight, opportunities are quite difficult to come by, so I decided to attend your event to see what kind of level I’m at.”

Ben’s mother also told us: “Three years ago Ben went through a very hard time. Football was and still is such a big part of his life, this is why I’ve been pushing him – because it is what he wants to do and he is so passionate about it. As far as I’m concerned, he has a gift and this is why we chose to pursue your event.”

After being scouted, we asked Ben to explain what happened next, he explained: “From your event, I was invited to attend three training sessions with Portsmouth.”

“During my time training with Portsmouth, the session would usually start with the players conducting a warm up, with things like rondos, etc.”

“Then each week there would be specific things that were focused on such as tactics whilst out of possession or attacking options.”

“Then with last training session I attended, we played a match where there were small goals and each team could only shoot after 10 passes. That was the only type of matches we played.”

“My whole experience with Portsmouth was great, I really enjoyed it.”

Ben’s mother also told us: “After the sessions we were told Portsmouth would be in touch, but we haven’t heard anything just yet.”

“Ben is really happy at his current team anyway so we are thinking maybe this isn’t such a bad thing.”

UK Football Trials would like to congratulate Ben on being scouted from our event and for continuing to play when others may have given up.

We wish him the best of luck with his future and hope he can continue to improve and impress. If he keeps working hard there is no doubt that he can greatly progress within the football industry.