Young footballer catches Sir Alex's eye

12:10pm Wednesday 27th August 2008

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ROSS Farran is aiming for the big time after impressing Sir Alex Ferguson with his skills.

The 17-year-old footballer from Wincham took part in Nike’s ‘Most Wanted’ campaign and came out on top – which has resulted in him signing a boot deal with Nike.

After relaxing in the spa at the hotel we went to Carrington on the Saturday for a game and what we didn’t know was that Sir Alex was watching us for the whole game.

Budding football star Ross Farran

He also took a penalty during half time at Manchester United’s recent home game against Newcastle.

The campaign was designed to find the best footballing talent in the UK.

After battling against 130 players during the first trial in Liverpool, the young striker was chosen to spend a weekend showcasing his talents to the coaches and Sir Alex at United’s Carrington training complex over the weekend of August 14 to 16.

The Mid-Cheshire College pupil, who is studying on the Football Development course and plays for the England Futsal team, said he was delighted with his success.

“At the Liverpool trial there were some good lads there and I was happy to get through,” he said.

“I was made up and I was just so focused during the trial.

“The coaches just told us to relax and take it easy but enjoy it.”

Two winners from each of the venues across the UK were selected to take part in the weekend in Manchester.

“When we got there on the Friday we got loads of free Nike kit, everything you could think of. Then Peter Reid and Ian Rush took us for a training session,” Ross added.

“After relaxing in the spa at the hotel we went to Carrington on the Saturday for a game and what we didn’t know was that Sir Alex was watching us for the whole game.

“We only found out at half time during that game he would be picking four players as winners.”

On the Sunday the coaches surprised the players by taking them to the game at Old Trafford – and in a video message on the coach Ross found out he was one of the four and he would be taking a penalty in front of 76,000 people.

“They have said they will monitor me to see how I’m doing. I was a bit gutted we just got the opportunity to take a penalty because I had worked so hard but I was thrilled Sir Alex liked me.”

The competition will be screened on Sky One in the next month.