21-year-old central defender Nathan Phillips attended our Birmingham and West London trials back in October 2020 and was scouted by Aldershot U23's for a trial.

We caught up with Nathan to discuss his football history, why he attended our events and how his trial with Aldershot went.

So firstly Nathan, can you please tell us a bit about yourself?

"Having grown up in Canada, I played my football there until the 19/20 season when I joined Spanish 5th tier side C.F. Albuixech. After playing semi-professionally in Spain for that season, I wanted to make a move to England because I’ve always wanted to play here."

Fantastic! What was the reason why you decided to come to a trial? 

"It’s very difficult for players coming out of North America to get opportunities. Without many options, I knew I had to come to your event to get the guaranteed exposure that I needed."

Clearly that worked in your favour! What was your club trial training like with Aldershot?

"My trial with Aldershot was excellent. As a professional club, the standard of play and coaching is top class. The staff and players were very receptive and welcoming to me."

Thats brilliant to hear! Has there been any feedback or decisions made?

"I trained with them for about 3 weeks and at the end of that period I was offered a permanent place. It has begun very well for me as I got my first start and scored in the league immediately after joining the club!"

Nathan that is incredible! We are delighted to hear that it has gone so well for you! As a player coming from overseas looking for an opportunity to signing for a National League side, do you have any advice for players in a similar position to yourself?

"My advice for other players looking to get scouted is to keep putting yourself in the shop window. For example, attending events like UK Football Trials where you are guaranteed to be seen. If you have the ability and, more importantly, the right attitude then you will get picked up. The number one on-field tip to get you noticed that I can give is communication. If you are being a leader on the pitch and making yourself heard, the scouts will take notice."

UK Football Trials would like to congratulate Nathan on an amazing trial with ourselves and Aldershot. We look forward to hearing more from him in the future and will bring updates as they come in.