Fleetwood Town International Football Academy (FTIFA) Graduates Brandon Sumptor and Nathaniel Clarke are poised to make their professional debuts with Fleetwood Town's sister Club Fleetwood United in Dubai.
Goalkeeper Brandon, from New Zealand spent 6 months training with the Fleetwood International Academy before being recommended to make the step up into the Dubai setup.
Midfielder Nate, from Canada has also spent a length of time at FTIFA is a versatile midfielder and left-sided defender and will also be making his debut on Friday night.
FTIFA Manager Mick Horsfall said on the news: “Brandon is a fantastic example of what FTIFA can offer a player who is desperate to prove people wrong. Brandon has had a number of set backs on his journey so far with his size being used to halt his opportunity.
“After working daily with him, working on his technique, confidence and communication, we believed Brandon had the attitude and ability to perform at the highest level irrespective of any size issues.
“We are delighted he is continuing to prove his talent with our partner Club!”
Nate is a talented Canadian who is versatile to dominate defensively at left back or as a deep lying midfielder.
Mick added: “Nate has all the physical attributes to play professionally. He also has dedicated over a year of full-time training with FTIFA UK in order for us to support his technical and tactical development to prepare him to move into Fleetwood United.
“We are very excited about the impact that Nate could have on the league and his future opportunities within the game!”
"The staff at Fleetwood Town FC and the International Academy will be keeping a close eye on this weekend and the whole season that the Dubai team embark on."
The vision for all our players who join FTIFA is to give them an opportunity to develop into the best player they can be. If that includes the pathway to Dubai then we will get them there.
The coaches are experienced and know the levels required to get to the Pro game. We can’t wait for two of our graduates to prove they deserve to be there and be the success they have worked so hard to be.
Opportunities to join the FTIFA Pro Experience Programs are available, and you can enquire on how to be involved by emailing info@ftifa.co.uk or visit our website at www.ftifa.co.uk