Starting his football journey as a striker for his grassroots club 15-year-old Zach has now transitioned into playing as a left winger but still enjoys scoring lots of goals from the wing earning himself the golden boot award for the past 3 seasons which is some achievement in itself.

Zach attended one of our UK Football Trials 1-day trial events in December 2023 and had a very successful trial gaining the interest from 4 clubs. Burnley F.C, Preston North End, Morecambe and Leeds Utd.

Following a successful trial Zach was invited to train with the development and academy squads at Burnley F.C. We interviewed Zach and asked him a range of questions regarding his trial experience and what happened, how he found the experience at a UK Football Trials event and what’s next for Zach….

Once UK Football Trials told you that you were scouted, what happened next?

“I was approached by the 4 clubs I was scouted by which were Burnley F.C, Preston North End, Morecambe and Leeds Utd. I then went on to train at Burnley with the development and academy squads, and I’m currently being watched at my other grassroots games by the other clubs.”

What happened at your club trial? Talk us through it!

“The trial at Burnley F.C was a bit daunting at first having not been in that environment before but after around half an hour or so I quickly settled in, and I also managed to grab a couple of goals during the game at the end of the session which settled any nerves.”

What do you feel you learned from your football trial?

“The expected technical standard and the intensity is far more than grassroots level, so you have to be on you’re A-game at all times.”

Was the level/ability of players at the trial what you expected?

“Technically there is not a huge difference, but the intensity and physicality are much different, and this was the major difference I noticed.”

What made you decide to attend a UK Football Trials event?

“To test my ability levels against other players.”

Would you recommend UK Football Trials to other players – and if so, why?

“Yes - very well organised and a good level of coaching and lots of scouts.”

And finally, what happens next, did the club give you any feedback or guidance?

“I am currently still being watched by the clubs I was scouted by and I am looking to earn a scholarship if possible as soon as possible.”

Zach Abbott – Aged 15 – Scouted by Burnley F.C, Preston North End, Morecambe & Leeds Utd – Trial with Burnley F.C