Young footballers are being given the chance to play in front of scouts from one of the world’s biggest clubs thanks to a new partnership.

Ball Sports Community Coaching has teamed up with Manchester City to deliver football sessions for the Premier League giants.

The first sessions will take the form of open development trials at The Marches School, Oswestry, on January 15 and 22, and anyone aged between five and 16 years old can register to attend.

Neil Prescott, of Ball Sports Community Coaching, said the partnership with Manchester City – home of England and former Shrewsbury Town goalkeeper, Joe Hart – was great news for youngsters.

He said: “We have been talking with Man City for some time and we are delighted to be able to offer this opportunity to young footballers in Shropshire.

“Scouts from Man City will be at the open trials in January so it’s an amazing chance to play in front of representatives from one of the biggest clubs in the world.

“The aim is that we will then hold regular development sessions with players filtering through into the Man City youth system.”

Mr Prescott said the partnership would have benefits for everyone connected with Ball Sports, whether they attended the football sessions or not.

“A big part of the relationship will be the development of our own coaching ethos,” he said.

“We will be working closely with Man City and learning from them about their philosophies which can only be a good thing for every child who comes on a Ball Sports course, regardless of their ability.

“The most important thing for us is bringing sport to as many youngsters as we possibly can. We are always striving to improve our service, and this partnership will help us to take things to the next level.”