For one Westmeath teen, 2010 could be the year when dreams come true as he battles it out to become Football’s Next Star.
Sixteen-year-old Connor Smith from Delvin in Westmeath is in with a chance of being signed up to one of the world’s biggest football clubs, Inter Milan, who are opening their changing room doors to the UK and Ireland’s undiscovered footballing prodigies.
Thousands entered the competition, but only one lucky young footballer will win the chance of a lifetime - a contract with Jose Mourinho’s Italian champions Internazionale.
Connor impressed the tough Inter Milan youth coaches Marco Monti and Paolo Migliavacca and was selected to be part of the final 10. He is now one step closer to achieving his dreams of becoming Football’s Next Star after a series of electrifying trials.
The final 10 will fly to Italy where they have just over a month to prove they have what it takes to make it in Italian football. They’ll live in a luxury villa beside spectacular Lake Como, learn the language, immerse themselves in the culture, and integrate themselves with the Inter Milan youth team. Football legends Luis Figo, Patrick Vieira, and Jose Mourinho himself will offer invaluable tips during their stay.
Throughout their journey they will be mentored by former Liverpool, Spurs, and England star and Sky Sports expert Jamie Redknapp.
The finalists must live and breathe football as they are put through their paces at Inter Milan’s world-famous academy Interello. The Inter coaches will be constantly assessing their soccer skills, scrutinising every pass, tackle, and goal.
Those who don’t give their all face losing their place in the competition and packing their bags. Each week the player who fails to impress Inter coach Marco Monti will be shown the red card – their dream of playing for Inter Milan left in tatters.
Wayne Rooney was in the Everton team at 16, Theo Walcott played for England at 17. With so much talent on display, could Connor shine to become Football’s Next Star?
Follow Connor’s story on Sky1 HD from Sunday 3 January at 8pm.
