Gang of nine out to impress

NINE young hopefuls are about to embark on two-year scholarships with Athletic in the hope of becoming the next generation of first-team stars.

Most of the new faces have already spent time in the under-18s under Tony Philliskirk, and goalkeeper Joel Coleman even appeared as a substitute for the reserves.

All are 16, except 15-year-old Tomos Clarke.

Thy are:

Michael Brewster: A midfielder who has been with Athletic for a short spell after his release from Manchester City.

Jordan Bove: A pelvic injury hampered his progress last term, but the striker is back to full fitness.

Tomos Clarke: Chris Tipton, father of former Athletic forward Matthew, originally put forward the Wales under-16 international as a possible Boundary Park star.

Joel Coleman: The goalkeeper is rated highly, having progressed through the ranks over five years.

Haydn Foulds: Brought in from Northside, the midfielder has been with Athletic following his release by Sheffield Wednesday. Kyle Hardman: From Middleton, the right-back or midfield player was picked up by the club after representing Manchester United in a trial match.

Will Kinder: Already a regular for the under-18s. Hails from Littleborough and operates wide on the left of midfield.

John Pritchard: Spent a decade at Manchester United and can play in a variety of positions

Jack Truelove: Arrived from Burnley in January after being released by the Championship club