Young duo returns rich with experience

They've returned with what they went in search for.

Ryan Topp and Robbie Williams, two youngsters from Dubai, have returned from their trials with football academies in the UK clubs. Both have been given a green signal to join up with the coaching schools there.

Topp got his nod from Scottish Division One side St. Johnstone, while Williams was given the green signal by the Wolverhampton Wanderers.

"The whole experience was fun," Topp smiled. "By going there, I've realised that I am up to their standard, if not better than some of the kids there," he added.

Topp's trial first took him for a few days to St. Johnstone and then on to the Leyton Orient facility.

"Just going around the facilities of the club is a growing experience. "I feel I've improved in all aspects of my game. I'm moving the ball quicker and I've also improved my touching and passing," Topp stated.

This improvement and the experience has goaded the youngster to aspire for bigger things in the UAE. "I'm trying to get into the Expats League here, so that I can continue improving my game playing against stronger teams," Topp noted.

And for the time-being, his return trip to St. Johnstone or his favourite club Aberdeen, has been put on hold.

"I will give myself another two years here and then, I will be able to aspire for a full-time place at the academy," Topp added.

On the other hand, 11-year-old Williams had a delightful spread before him during his stint with the Wolves.

The Jumeirah youngster played in a friendly tournament held in Liverpool involving junior sides from Middlesbrough, Newcastle, Burnley and Everton.

"We drew one and lost three," Williams smiled.

"But it was an experience in itself as I played against Wayne Rooney's younger brother, who dons colours for Everton," Williams gushed. "This tour to the UK has taught me that I need to be stronger and fitter," he added.

Williams is undecided on his future plans. "I have an invitation to join the academy. But school too is important and we've managed to do some scouting around in the UK. Maybe, I will go back to the Wolves sometime during the Christmas or Easter holidays," the youngster added.