Goalkeeper Michael attended our February 2024 trials in Manchester and was successfully scouted by 2 clubs. Altrincham F.C were the first club to react and called Michael offering him an 8-week trial period with the 1^st team which Michael was really pleased with.

Michael is no stranger to academy football having come through the ranks within the Welsh football system at Connahs Quay Nomads for age groups U15’s, U16’s and 1^st year scholarship. Michael left the Welsh academy system to take up an opportunity with non-league club 1874 Northwich’s 1^st team who play in the Northern Premier League – West division.

During the trial period with Altrincham the day would begin with breakfast with the 1^st team followed by gym work and analysis and then after this straight onto the pitches for specific goalkeeper training but finishing off with whole team play. Michael has said that it is fantastic to be able to have the opportunity to train with a professional club receiving top quality coaching and training with elite players.

Michael attended our trials for a 2^nd time having attended once before when he was much younger. We asked him why he decided to attend one of our trials again and he said, “I remember it being a really good experience and as I got older, and I was coming back into the English leagues I thought it would be another good opportunity to showcase my skills and ability.” This would prove to be a great decision given the success that Michael is now having.

Michael went onto to explain his experience at Altrincham in more detail and mentioned that the standard of training is outstanding. The guidance on specific goalkeeping gym programs and nutrition Michael feels has given him the knowledge to step up another level and earning himself a training spot with Altrincham which will also allow him to play for his club 1874 Northwich.

Finally, we asked Michael if he would recommend UK Football Trials to any other senior players, and he said “absolutely and I already have. It’s a great way to assess yourself against other players of different ages and showcase your ability in front of scouts from all levels of football and especially the non-league & semi-pro circuit.”.

We extend our best wishes to Michael during his trial period, and we look forward to seeing how he gets on in the near future. What an achievement!

Michael Shorthouse – Aged 17 - Scouted by Altrincham F.C