Dheeraj Singh started his trial with Scottish Premier League side Motherwell FC on Thursday and the young goalkeeper was asked by the club coaches to train with the first team footballers.
The 17-year old caught the attention of Motherwell FC scouts during the FIFA U-17 World Cup last year where he was undoubtedly the best player for India. The hosts were unable to reach the knockout stages, but Dheeraj’s performances made him a hero among the Indian football fans.
READ | Dheeraj Singh’s Motherwell FC trail just the start of arduous, uncertain journey
Dheeraj quit Indian Arrows, the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) developmental squad in the I- League, after the end of his contract on December 31, 2017 to pursue his dreams of playing for an European club. In the meantime, he was training with the Indian Super League side Kerala Blasters.
Dheeraj’s trial in Scotland is expected to be for three weeks. However, even If he manages to impress the coaches at Motherwell FC, the youngster will still have to wait till July 2018, when he turns 18, to obtain an international transfer.
{{/usCountry}}Dheeraj’s trial in Scotland is expected to be for three weeks. However, even If he manages to impress the coaches at Motherwell FC, the youngster will still have to wait till July 2018, when he turns 18, to obtain an international transfer.
{{/usCountry}}Motherwell FC’s current first-team squad features three goalkeepers and they also have highly-rated young shot-stopper Rohan Ferguson on their books. The 20-year old is currently on loan to Airdrieonians FC but the deal expires at the end of this season, meaning there is every chance Motherwell will choose to retain him next season.
As a result, Dheeraj’s best shot at a first-team berth will come if he gets signed, goes through the club’s academy and plays for the U-20 side, which currently features only one goalkeeper according to the club’s website.