15-year-old striker/winger Jacob James was scouted from our West London event back in 2021 by Premier League side Chelsea!

We caught up with Jacob to gain an insight into his footballing background, why he chose to attend our events and how his trial with Chelsea was.

Firstly, Jacob talked us through his football history explaining: "I am currently playing for PEDSSA District team, JPL team BRS Dorset, playing in this league on Saturdays for three years as well as playing Division One football league for five years on Sundays."

He added: "My most memorable moment was scoring a hat trick in the Divison one Final in 2020."

A talented footballer, we were curious as to why Jacob hadn't already had opportunities with clubs previously and what made him attend our events. He told us: "I have never noticed any Scouts or know of anyone that had been scouted at any of these games. Because of this, my Father suggested we go to UK Football Trials to experience the level of players, confirm my ability as a footballer and also to show my talents in front of a number of Scouts."

This paid off for Jacob as he was scouted by Chelsea!

Jacob explained what happened after being scouted from our event: "At the trial I was scouted by Chelsea and another big club. This resulted in the Chelsea scout attending a PEDSSA game where I played well, scoring one goal and assisting another."

He continued: "I was then Invited to the Chelsea showcase games. The coaching, games, and meeting all of the staff was a fantastic experience which I will never forget. I was told at the end of the last game that unfortunately I had not been selected but came very close."

Jacob did not let this set back knock his confidence, telling us he is now "Looking to pursue other offers."

As a player who had no academy experience previously to being scouted by one of the biggest clubs in England, we asked Jacob for advice to other players like himself, he said: "The only advice I can give any good player is to attend UK Football Trials to expose yourself to a large number of scouts.

"Make sure you give 100 percent and read up on what the scouts are looking for so you can play the best version of your game." 

"The staff are really helpful, the trial is well organised and also the important thing for me has been the contact between myself and all of the staff after the trial assisting me through the process and moving forward."

UK Football Trials would like to congratulate Jacob and wish him the best of luck for the future.