FROM Hale United to Broadheath Central to the Premier League with a contract to the age of 18 at Burnley Football Club – that is what is in line for talented St Ambrose College footballer Kian Yari.

The Hale Barns 15-year-old is currently sitting 11 GCSEs but after next summer, he will leave school to continue his education with Burnley both on and off the football field.

Kian, a tough-tackling central midfielder with cultured control with both feet, started playing at Hale United when he was just four years old.

He said: “I still remember the games and am thankful to all the volunteers who run that club and to those at Broadheath Central where I went next.

"They provide a good grounding for any young footballer.”

After brief spells at both Manchester United and Manchester City, Kian found a more permanent home at Burnley where he has been training for the last six years.

He added: “I love it at Burnley; it's a club that really cares about its young players and the wider community and I have seen the club on the up and up and regain our Premier League spot this year.”

Kian combines his studies with training four times a week and a game on Sundays and knows he will have to work hard to earn his chance.

“It's a hugely competitive environment but we all know that and we all want each other to succeed," he said.

"I am determined to work my hardest and hopefully have a career in football, if not on the pitch then connected to the game.”

Dale Krause, who is Kian's head of house at St Ambrose College, said: “Kian is a cracking lad who has earned his shot with a top football club.

"Everyone at St Ambrose will be wishing him well and hoping we can add a top-class footballer to the ranks of our alumni.”