“It was the 2018 World Cup that really inspired me,” Josh said. “After watching that tournament, I just knew I wanted to get involved in football.” 

He joined Kiveton Park JFC, his local club, playing alongside his friends. It wasn’t long before his potential became clear, and with that came a desire to push further and challenge himself. 

Josh’s development accelerated when he earned a place at Sheffield United Junior Blades, competing in the highly competitive Sheffield League A Division. His team went on to win the league two years in a row, and in one unforgettable season, they achieved the treble — securing the League title, League Cup, and County Cup. 

His growing reputation saw him take on multiple football commitments. From the age of 11, Josh also began playing on Saturdays for Worksop Town Academy and later joined Rotherham Schools Select, where he played for two seasons. This year, his RSS team won the Yorkshire Schools League and are through to the Yorkshire Cup Final. 

Josh has also proudly represented South Yorkshire Schools, with his team currently preparing for the playoff semi-finals. 

“I’ve been playing Saturdays and Sundays, and also take private coaching sessions to keep improving,” Josh explained. “I really enjoy that part of the game — it’s made a big difference to my development.” 

Looking to test himself at the highest level, Josh attended UK Football Trials. There, his talent stood out to multiple clubs — and he was soon scouted by both Nottingham Forest and Wrexham. 

“It was actually my dad who got the first call — from Nottingham Forest,” Josh said. “That was even before we received the email confirming interest from the clubs.” 

Forest arranged to watch Josh in one of his regular matches. Impressed by what they saw, they extended an invitation for a formal trial, which will take place in May. 

“I’m really excited for the trial and just focused on giving it my all.” 

Josh credits UK Football Trials for giving him the platform to shine. 

“The coaching was intense — but I loved it,” he said. “It gave me a proper insight into academy-level coaching. And the match at the end was a great challenge because I was playing with older players, aged 14 to 16.” 

Josh described the highlight of the day as the chance to play in front of over 20 scouts. 

“That part was incredible. Just knowing who was watching gave me a real buzz — it pushed me to perform my best.” 

Looking back, he says he would absolutely recommend UK Football Trials to any aspiring player. 

“If you want to break into an academy environment, this is the best place to be seen. I only wish I’d done it sooner.” 

With a growing list of achievements and a Nottingham Forest trial ahead, Josh Williams is proof that a late start doesn’t mean a late finish — only that the journey is just getting started.