15-year-old Bade Aluko was scouted from our five day training and trial camp back in August 2021 by Premier League side Leicester City. Since trialling with the club he has gone on to sign for their academy!

We caught up with Bade's mother Fade to discuss her son's time with Leicester.

So first of all How did you feel when Leicester City told you they wanted Bade?

"I felt very happy for him. He wanted it so badly. Because we (myself, Bade and his dad) were all in different parts of the world during the feedback meeting with the head of the academy after the trial period, we had to meet virtually via Teams. He couldn't hide his excitement when they broke the good news. The look on his face told the story. I was very pleased for him."

How is Bade finding life at the club?

"He is thoroughly enjoying every single bit of it. The club has state of the art facilities. The new Leicester City training facility ranks among the best in the world. For Bade, it is a privilege to be able to train in such a facility with access to some of the best coaches in the country as well as other support staff. In addition, Bade has made many new friends at the club. In order to make it at LCFC, it is not enough to have footballing skills, one must also have the right attitude. This is really important."

Has Bade played any matches for Leicester City ?

"In the just concluded 2021/22 season, Bade featured week in week out for Leicester City U15's, playing as centre half or right wing back depending on the formation. They have converted him into playing in defence. They had a pretty good season and made it to the U15 National Tournament in March where they were drawn in Group C along the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea and Sunderland. They had a good outing and made it to the Semi Finals. Bade has also enjoyed call ups to play with the year above, the U16's."

Has he improved as a player?

"Certainly! He has improved significantly both technically and tactically. His ball handling skills continue to improve so has his reading of the game. He is certainly more agile and athletic. His fitness level has also improved significantly."

Finally, what advise to you have for other players looking to sign for a pro academy?

"It takes a lot of discipline and dedication. The players need to have the right attitude to training as well as their academics. They need to develop the right habits (eating, sleeping, stretching etc.). They need to take advantage of any events where scouts will be present. For example, the UK Football Trials camp was where Bade was spotted. He went there to have fun and enjoy his football. We received calls from several scouts afterwards. That was not our plan. It all just played out like that. Glory be to God."