Young footballers from Ghana's Samba Stars Academy have been showcasing their talent in England, with players undergoing trials at a number of professional clubs. The academy, which receives backing from former West Ham and Nottingham Forest forward Michail Antonio, has seen its players spend two and a half months in the UK aiming to secure professional contracts.
Clubs including Bournemouth, Everton, Manchester City, Charlton, Preston, Barnsley, and Peterborough have all taken Samba Stars players on trial this summer. This follows midfielder Listowell Lord Hinneh's move to Middlesbrough in February after a successful trial.
Antonio stated that the academy was created to provide young Ghanaian players with access to elite coaching and to establish pathways into professional football. Head coach Freddie Okyere expressed hope for significant interest, highlighting the talent within the squad.
The visiting group, hosted by Brook House College in Market Harborough, has trained at Harborough Town and played a series of games against youth teams from the EFL and non-league. Their results include a 9-0 victory over Dorking Wanderers and wins against Under-21 sides from Sheffield Wednesday, Luton, and Peterborough.