At 20 years old, Gibraltar international forward Liam Jessop has built a football journey defined by resilience, ambition, and the ability to seize every opportunity placed in front of him. His pathway into the professional game began with UK Football Trials, where he attended our five-day residential camp, looking for exposure, high-level coaching, and a genuine platform to push his development forward.

Across the five days, Liam consistently impressed with his attitude, professionalism, and technical quality. His commitment both on and off the pitch stood out, and following the camp, UK Football Schools supported Liam by placing him into a full-time academy environment in England, giving him the structure, education, and football development he needed to progress.

Reflecting on this stage of his journey, Liam explained how important the experience was in shaping him as a player and a person:

“Being in an academy environment allowed me to learn more about my game and how to conduct myself like a professional. Preparing properly, looking after myself, and improving every day on and off the pitch became part of my routine.”

While developing in England, Liam continued to represent his country on the international stage. He featured for Gibraltar at Under-17 and Under-21 level, gaining invaluable experience against strong European opposition. Those international appearances further highlighted his maturity and ability to compete at a high level.

“Playing for my home nation was unbelievable,” Liam said. “We played against tough and physical opponents, but it was a fantastic experience and something I’ll always be proud of.”

As his development continued, Liam earned opportunities in senior men’s football in England, testing himself physically and tactically while adapting to the demands of the adult game. Each step strengthened his confidence, sharpened his decision-making, and prepared him for the next level.

By 2023, Liam’s consistent progress and strong performances led to him signing with Chesterfield FC’s academy. Coaches at the club highlighted his professionalism, work ethic, and versatility, noting his ability to operate effectively on either flank. Upon signing, Liam spoke positively about the opportunity and the environment he was entering:

“I’m really excited about joining the academy. I enjoyed my time with them in pre-season and I can’t wait to show the fans and coaches what I can bring to the club.”

His upward trajectory continued into 2025, when he secured a season-long loan move to Lincoln Red Imps, Gibraltar’s most successful club and a regular competitor in European competition. Playing senior football at that level marked another significant milestone in his career.

Then came a moment that defined everything he had worked towards.

On 14 November 2025, Gibraltar faced Montenegro in a World Cup Qualifier at the Europa Point Stadium. Liam started the match with confidence and composure, and in the 20th minute, he found the net — scoring his first senior international goal for Gibraltar. At just 20 years old, Liam Jessop became a goal-scoring senior international footballer.

From UK Football Trials’ five-day camp,

to being placed into an academy through UK Football Schools,

to progressing through English football,

to senior international football and scoring for his country —

Liam’s journey is a powerful example of what is possible when talent meets belief, opportunity, and relentless commitment. His story shows that when players fully embrace the chances in front of them, extraordinary progress can follow.