Lazim Ali (Malappuram), V.K. Afdal (Malappuram), C.V. Muhammed Shafi (Wayanad) and P. Fihas (Kozhikode) were adjudged as the three 'Airtel Rising Stars' plus goalkeeper at the Kozhikode two day talent hunt that concluded yesterday at the Municipal Corporation Stadium. The players were selected on criteria based on the aspects mentioned in the Manchester United Scouting Guidelines.The experienced and watchful eyes of the coaches judged the players on their performance, taking into consideration their physical and mental strengths, expertise in position, and technical acumen. Based on their expertise in the city camp Lazim Ali, V.K. Afdal, C.V. Muhammed Shafi and P. Fihas were selected. The three footballers plus goalkeeper from Kozhikode will join players from 15 other centres to participate in the six-day final selection trial, scheduled to take place in Bangalore from September 10.
In total 950 children took part with 80 boys shortlisted from Day one with the list cut down to 34 and from there the final three field players were chosen. Those who failed to make it to the camp will get another opportunity to make their 'Airtel Rising Stars' dream come true next season. They will also receive Manchester United certificates, signed by none other than Sir Alex Fergusson.
Launched in association with Manchester United, 'Airtel Rising Stars' is a rigorous scouting program that will cover 16 cities across India and will choose 12 talented footballers who get the chance-of-a-lifetime to attend a week long training camp with Manchester United in Old Trafford, England.
The three best players from Kozhikode will join 45 other players, who will be divided into four teams of 12 each and will be tested on all parameters (including physical attributes, individual skills, match situations and their performances in actual matches) before the 12 best players are chosen to travel to Manchester United for a week and to train alongside the Manchester United Academy team.
