Football: Island players earn places on 'elite' programme

It's after all impressed for Island's youth academy side this season

Five Isle of Man football players have earned places on what's described as an 'elite' football and education programme in the UK.

Liam Blake, Preston Cleator, Jimmy Lowther, Alex Bolton and Dylan Bullock have all been selected to join Tranmere Rovers College, a project which has ties to current English Football League side, Tranmere Rovers.

It comes after the players were talent-spotted by coaching and recruitment staff whilst representing the Isle of Man Academy Under-16's squad against Tranmere Rovers Under-16's earlier this season.

This led to further trials before all were offered places on the programme for the next campaign.

The Isle of Man Football Association says this is a 'huge milestone in the Island's youth development pathway' as well as 'the success of the Isle of Man FA Academy pathway in giving players a platform to showcase their talent.'