Alex Turner, who has joined Liverpool's academy, is one of seven boys playing for a local club to be recruited by professional sides.

Five youngsters, all aged eight, from St Helens Town Rangers have signed to join the LFC academy, with Everton FC and Preston North End FC each signing up one.

Alex's proud parents are delighted with their son's progress, and dad David said: "Alex was delighted to be picked up by Liverpool.

"He loves his football and, even at his age, he puts time, effort and dedication into it. Alex is still small but plays as a defender because he's quick and a good tackler. He may look harmless, but not much gets by him!"

The team's delighted coach Ian Duke says he reckons more squad members could be signed up before too long, adding: "We're so lucky to watch a team of tremendous footballers play the game every week – you would think they were under-11 or 12.

"When I took this team on two-and-a-half years ago I knew it was a very talented crop of players and that scouts would start to follow our games.

"The lads have played in lots of summer competitions and won an amazing 15 cups, including the Great Yarmouth Cup and Knowsley International. They only conceded a single goal in the Knowsley International."

The successful squad members are set for a farewell tour this summer, jetting to Spain for the prestigious Copa Marbella tournament.

The Birchley St Marys pupil's mum Jen added: "It will be a fantastic experience for Alex. Even if he doesn't go any further, we're all extremely proud of him."