Joshua – 15 Years Old – Goalkeeper | Scouted by Preston North End 

At 15 years old, Joshua is continuing to build on his experience as a goalkeeper, earning recognition from Preston North End after attending UK Football Trials. 

Joshua has developed his game through time spent across various academy environments, and is currently playing within the JPL setup at Bury, where he continues to compete at a strong level and refine his skills between the posts. 

Looking to gain further exposure and test himself in front of scouts, Joshua attended a UK Football Trials event in Bury, following a recommendation from another parent. 

The experience provided him with the opportunity to perform in a focused environment, designed to highlight individual ability. 

“It gives players an opportunity to show ability in an isolated environment,” his father explained. 

During the event, Joshua demonstrated his goalkeeping qualities, earning attention from a Preston North End scout, who followed up after the trial. 

“The scout emailed and said he would try to get to some games to watch.” 

While a formal trial has not yet taken place, the interest shown is a positive step, with the club now looking to assess Joshua further in a match setting. 

For Joshua, the experience also reinforced his belief in his own ability. 

“Affirmation of my ability.” 

That confidence is an important takeaway, particularly for goalkeepers, where consistency and mindset play a crucial role in development. 

Reflecting on the trial itself, Joshua appreciated the structure and opportunity it provided. 

“He enjoyed the event and the way it progressed, which gave him a chance to show his ability.” 

The platform allowed him to perform under observation, something that can be difficult to replicate in regular club football where scouts may not always be present. 

Joshua attended UK Football Trials with the aim of gaining exposure — and that goal has been achieved, with a professional club now aware of his performances and looking to follow up. 

As things stand, he is continuing to play and develop with Bury, while the Preston North End scout looks to attend upcoming matches to assess him further. 

From academy experience… 
to competing in the JPL… 
to now being scouted and monitored by Preston North End — 

Joshua’s journey is progressing steadily. 

At 15, with continued performances and the right mindset, he is putting himself in a strong position for the next opportunity when it comes.