Partnership pays off for Bakre

FC United of Manchester’s Ademola Bakre is heading for a one week trial at Sheffield Wednesday after the club’s new college partnership paid early dividends.

Rebels and Manchester College Football Academy star Bakre, pictured, is currently studying on the BTEC Level 3 Sports Course at The Manchester College Football Academy and his performances in the British Colleges Elite League attracted the Championship side’s attention.

The Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division club's 17-year-old is due to play for Wednesday against Nottingham Forest during a week with the youth team after starring for the students.

FCUM manager Karl Marginson, who is also the teenager’s Manchester College first team coach, said: "Ademola was selected as the Football Academy captain due to his hard work and attitude to training and he fully deserves his chance to gain a professional contract in football.

"The fact that Ade has been spotted by a professional club is testament to the partnership between FC United and The Manchester College and the development work of the Football Academy coaching staff with all of the players at the college.”

Head of The Manchester College Football Academy, Paul Bright, said: "Ademola has been a model student and player since he came to the college and his commitment, dedication and passion for football has resulted in him being scouted and selected for trials with a professional club.

"I wish Ade the best of luck during his trial and I am sure that Sheffield Wednesday will recognise the ability and talent that we see from Ade every week and that he will do himself and The Manchester College very proud."

The Manchester College Football Academy in partnershiop with FCUM will be holding trials in February, Easter and the Summer half term for current Year 11 male and female footballers who’re looking to combine their football careers with studying on a full time college course starting in September 2013.

Players interested in attending the trials for a place in The Manchester College Football Academy can register online at http://www.themanchestercollege.ac.uk/subject-area/sport/academies/trial-dates/enquiry

Alternatively, potential players can contact Paul Bright, Head of Football Academy, on 0161 920 4811 or email PBright@themanchestercollege.ac.uk