Cyril – 17 Years Old – Right Back | Scouted by Flint Town United

At 17 years old, Cyril is a right back with a football education that goes well beyond what most players his age have experienced. Development football at Derby County, trials at Lincoln City and Rotherham United, and now competing at Notts County — his background is strong, and his decision to attend UK Football Trials has added another meaningful chapter to his story.

Cyril started out in grassroots football with Chesapeake Apaches before his ability caught the attention of Derby County's development programme at the age of 12. In the years since, he has tested himself at Lincoln City and Rotherham United — League One and Championship clubs — gaining experience of professional academy environments that most players his age never see.

He attended UK Football Trials' event at Tamworth, and spoke positively about what the day offered. The coaching was something he particularly noted.

"It was really good. I enjoyed the experience, meeting new people and doing different drills I had not done before. What stood out to me was the coaches and the intensity they coached at — it pushed me to my limits, which helped me get the best out of myself."

The feedback delivered throughout the sessions was another aspect that made an impression — the way coaches provided clear direction that players could immediately carry into the eleven-versus-eleven game.

"The coaches always provided feedback on what I could improve on, which allowed me to apply it into the eleven-versus-eleven game."

When it came to the match itself, Cyril was aware of the mental side of performing in front of scouts — staying composed rather than trying to force things.

"It was more of a mental game — to not get carried away with the ball. I think I was composed and relaxed."

That composure was noticed. Flint Town United came to watch a subsequent showcase game, made direct contact with Cyril and his family, and a meeting took place to discuss a trial. The stumbling block turned out to be geography — Flint Town are based in Wales and were unable to offer accommodation to players travelling from outside the area, which prevented the trial from going ahead.

Despite that, the club came back to watch him a second time and offered direct feedback: they wanted to see more aggression in his game. That kind of specific guidance from a senior club is genuinely useful for any player looking to develop, and Cyril will be better for having heard it.

Reflecting on his UK Football Trials experience, Cyril said:

"You do not know what to expect. You may be playing well but you may not be what the scouts are looking for. It is a trial full of ups and downs, but you never give up."

With that perspective, feedback from a senior club to work on, and his continued development at Notts County, Cyril is moving in the right direction. The opportunity with Flint Town did not materialise due to circumstances outside his control — but the ability was not in question. He continues to push forward.

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