Will Couch - Aged 15 - Signed as Scholar for Burnley

Will Couch - Aged 15 - Signed as Scholar for Burnley

In July 2017, attacking midfielder Will Couch was scouted by his boyhood club Burnley for a six-week-trial.

 

Following a successful trial, Burnley opted to sign the then 13-year-old playmaker for their u14’s academy. Fast-forward to January 2020 and UK Football Trials are delighted to announce that Will has now signed for the club as a scholar!

 

Speaking with Will’s father Tony, he explained: “Will’s taken that next step. We’re well aware that it is only the first step, but it is a big step, signing as a scholar for your boyhood club is every lad’s dream.”

 

“The next step which would be a huge one is to sign as a professional for Burnley.”

 

Tony also explained the difficulties Will has faced as a player and the journey he has been on to get where he is today: “As you know Will broke his wrist whilst on trial with Burnley which delayed the process, where as usually a player would get a decision after the six-week-trial, it took Will three or four months.”

 

He added: “Will’s the youngest lad on the pitch and has always had to punch above his weight, but he has always dealt with it brilliantly.”

 

“He has always known he’s wanted to play football professionally so he has always remained dedicated and focused. That’s how you need to be if you want to make it.”

 

Talking more on the scholarship signing, Tony told us: “The full scholarship starts in July. By then he has to have a medical again.”

 

“As well as this, he also has to ensure that his educational progress is in line with his academic targets and expectations set out by his school.”

 

“The club and Will’s school work hand in hand when it comes to education. When at the club, Will spends time obviously training and football but he also has to do the main three school topics; English, maths and science.” He added.

 

Whilst Will is lucky enough to have signed as a scholar, it isn’t the case for a lot of players around his age. Tony explained to us: “At this time of the year all of the clubs are releasing or signing lads as scholars, and the vast majority don’t make it.”

 

“Once a player is released from an academy, they’ll go to other clubs or other clubs come in and take a look at them, it’s an absolute jungle out there. You can’t afford to sit back. You have to remain positive, play your best and put yourself out there.”

 

 

 

Tony’s advice for any players looking to attend one of our trials is: “If you sign up to a UK Football Trials event, go into it as you would an interview.”

 

“There are people who can and will place you into a club. So make sure you prepare correctly, get a good nights rest and be attentive. As they say, failing to prepare is preparing to fail.”

 

“If you’re not successful first time round, don’t give up, work hard and keep trying.”

 

UK Football Trials would once again like to congratulate Will on this brilliant news and wish him all the best going forward with Burnley.

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