Pride as Wigan teenager scouted for future Lionesses trial

A Wigan teenager has been left 'shocked' and 'excited' after she was spotted by a top footballing talent scout and invited to trial for the opportunity of a lifetime.

Amelia Roberts, 13, was invited to try out for the future Lionesses pathway after she was scouted while playing for East Leigh A.F.C Violets. The teen, from Hindley, has been playing football since she was four years old and in May was selected to join and Blackpool FC's Emerging Talent Centre.

Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, East Leigh Violets coach Danny Jackson said everybody who watches Amelia can see her talent, saying he believes she is 'going to be something special'.

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Danny added Manchester United fan Amelia had 'dreamed' of following in the footsteps of her idol Ella Toone - who grew up just down the road in Tyldesley. "I think she will if I'm honest," he said. "She's a quality player.

"Last season she got a position at Blackpool, which she does on Friday, and then she comes to train with us during the week and on a Sunday she plays for our East Leigh Violets team," he continued. "So she's fully committed to the football."

He added that seeing Amelia's progress has had a 'big impact' on the rest of the team.

"We're all so proud of her," he said. "All the parents and everybody, they all know how good she is. You can see it when you watch her play that she's going to be something special."

Amelia told the M.E.N she usually plays in a central midfield position, but 'loves playing' anywhere. "My favourite thing is just the fun of it," she said.

The teenager grew up playing in boys teams before she joined East Leigh A.F.C violets last year. Mum Sarah told the M.E.N when Amelia