9-year-old forward Michael Ogunlade attended our Essex trial in July 2021 and was scouted by Tottenham, Crystal Palace, Southend United and Colchester.

Since being scouted, Michael has been in with Colchester on trial and has impressed. We caught up with him to discuss his football history, why he felt he wasn't getting opportunities else where and how he found the trial with a pro club.

So firstly Michael, please talk us through your football history.

"I have been playing football since the tender age of three years old at various mini kickers and weekend clubs. It was due to my passion, enthusiasm, talent and skills that I was selected to play for a grassroots level club (Dagenham United Blues FC). I have been playing for this club for a few years now." 

"Notable achievements include helping my club win several matches and participating at the Chelsea ‘Play on the Pitch’ tournament where I helped our club come third out of eight teams by scoring two goals and assisting four. I also play at my school’s football club."

What was the reason why you think you weren’t getting an opportunity and decided to come to our trial?

"Even though I really enjoy playing for my local team Dagenham, I wanted the opportunity to play at an advanced level and pursue my desired ambition to play for a Premier League club. However, the opportunity to get scouted in my local team and the area I live at was slim hence why I decided to attend UKFT, which was the best decision I ever made as I was scouted by four clubs and thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience."

What was your club trial like – i.e what did you do and how did you find the whole experience?

"I am currently attending the weekly trial sessions at the Colchester United Elite Centre. We start off by practising our skills, such as dribbling, passing, shooting and ball control and then move on to a friendly match. It is a really great experience and is providing me with the opportunity to hone my skills even more and train with other great players."

Has there been any feedback or decisions made and if so what did the club you were trialling with say?

"No decisions have been made yet but I generally receive positive feedback during these sessions and hope to advance to the academy trials."

What advice would you give to other players who think they have the talent but need an opportunity to get scouted?

"The trial at UKFT was amazing and a moment in my life that I will never forget. I enjoyed every moment of it and the opportunity to play with other fantastic players."

"The feedback I received on my performance on the day has also been invaluable. I would advise players to never give up and settle for anything less than the best. If you have talent and skills, book yourself onto a UKFT event, showcase your skills and increase your chances of getting scouted. Even if you don’t get scouted, enjoy every moment and learn from the feedback you receive." 

"Thank you so much to the people at UKFT for this fantastic opportunity."