A Matlock Town prospect has made the big leap to the English Football League by signing for Sky Bet Championship side Sheffield United.
16-year-old winger Zak Brunt, who went on trial with the Blades earlier this year, signed a scholarship deal with the Championship club to become the second Matlock player to reach Championship level in the last six months.
Brunt follows in the path of towering teenage defender Max Hunt, 19, who moved to fellow Championship side Derby County in January from the Gladiators.
Matlock's development manager and academy director Justin Tellus said that the move was a "landmark moment" for the club.
"Zak is a special talent and was always destined for the professional game," said Mr Tellus.
"I am pleased we played a big part in his development and journey, while I am so pleased for the hard-working lad and his amazing family who have supported their son over many years."
The young winger was delighted with his move to United, but expressed his gratitude to the Gladiators, who he joined in 2017.
"My experience with the Gladiators has been invaluable to me, and it’s put me in a good place mentally for the challenges that lay ahead," Brunt said.
"My teammates have been absolutely fantastic, from the 16s up to and including the first team.
"Without their encouragement, things would have been much more difficult for me."
Brunt made numerous appearances for Matlock's first team last season, whilst also captaining the youth team during the entirety of the 2017/18 season.
Commentaires