Sheffield Wednesday have taken striker Alie Bangura on trial.
Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough stadium
The manager of Broxbourne Borough’s Under-18s has praised Sheffield Wednesday’s conduct during the Owls’ approach for Alie Bangura.
Bangura caught the eye during Broxbourne’s FA Youth Cup run, which finally came to an end against Aston Villa at the fifth round stage.
Wednesday appear to have made the first move, taking Bangura on trial this week, and are expected to take a closer look at the 18-year-old striker in Saturday’s Under-18s fixture with Leeds United.
Though Broxbourne stand lose their hottest prospect should he impress at Middlewood Road, Bangura’s boss Tony Bleau has told the Hertfordshire Mercury he would be delighted to see him sign for the Owls.
“He’s only on trial, but we’re obviously pleased he’s with Sheffield Wednesday,” he said.
“In the trial you will be looked at in terms of fitness as it’s such a massive jump [to that level] and also on your technical ability, as well as you character.
“As you are in digs for the week they will want to see how you cope with being a long way from home and assess your character.
“They’ll look at everything including how you integrate with the players, and how you perform in sessions and how you take information on board.
“If it’s successful we’ll all be delighted – it’s great for him and for the club.”
Bleau added: “The good thing is Sheffield [Wednesday] have gone through all the correct procedures and channels with an official letter – and the club has granted it.”
Bangura is not the first non-league talent to have been invited for a trial at Wednesday this season, with former Hednesford Town left-back Cohen Bramall certainly the most notable.
The 20-year-old impressed for the Owls’ development side in last month’s win over Birmingham City, but later signed for Arsenal instead after being spotted by Gunners scout Brian McDermott.
Former Leeds United manager Brian McDermott
Broxbourne’s Under-18s, whose senior side play in the ninth-tier of English football, beat Chester and Yeovil before losing out to Villa in this season’s FA Youth Cup.
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