THREE players from the Strachan Football Foundation (SFF) took the next step towards breaking into the professional ranks after impressing at recent trials.
Sean Conaboy was invited up to Doncaster Rovers and most recently at Birmingham City as he continues his pursuit of a career in the game.
The 20-year-old midfielder, who recently attended a Scotland Under-19 regional training camp, is back with the SFF.
Striker Dylan Osthudy (pictured below) is currently on trial with the Sky Blues having also played a number of games for the League One club’s Under-21s.
Osthudy, 19, played against Leed United, Sheffield United, Sheffield Wednesday and Birmingham City in recent weeks and the athletic striker will continue to play for the club as he looks to earn his first professional deal.
Callum Jones is a player that was born in the UK but lives in Australia with his family. The 16-year-old joined SFF in August last year after being recommended by West Ham’s Oceania Academy.
Jones travelled to Holland in recent weeks for a week-long trial at FC Utrecht and he got lots of positive feedback.
A total of 23 players from the foundation have now gone on to enjoy trials at professional clubs and managing director Dan Elliott is confident there will be plenty more in the future.
He said: “Our focus has always been about developing the individual.
“We help each player find opportunities in employment, higher education, semi-professional football and if fortunate enough to find a career in professional football.
“We have been successful with Luke Leahy who has recently signed a new deal with Falkirk and has now played over 100 games in the Scottish Championship.
“To see Sean, Dylan and Callum go on trial with professional clubs and perform well is really down to the work of the coaches and the attitudes of the players.
“All three have listened and worked hard on their game which has attracted interest from clubs within professional football.
“The experience whilst on trial gives the players an opportunity to learn what it takes to find their way in the professional game from their performance on the field to nutrition , gym work and how they live their lives on a daily basis.”
