AFC Telford buzzing to land former Albion youngster

Six-foot plus and an attacking midfielder, the 17-year-old was the only player from 100 trialists invited to Bucks' youth trials to sign a deal and he has agreed a 12-month contract.

Lilly has been training with Steve Kittrick's squad during pre-season after being brought to the Bucks' attention by former assistant manager John Psaras.

Psaras is now coaching AFC Wulfrunians Under-18s in Wolverhampton, where the teenager spent last season following his release from West Brom's youth academy.

The MFL Premier Division outfit – where Telford play a friendly on Saturday and who are managed by former Telford favourite Steve Palmer – wanted to take Lilly on loan.

But Kittrick believes he will be better served by being used as an impact player for Telford in National League North.

Wolverhampton-based Lilly is combining his football with his studies in BTEC Sport and Business at Thomas Telford School, and will continue to play for his school team.

In a statement, the club said: "Zak only turned 17 in June but has shown outstanding attitude and ability in first team pre-season training which has persuaded the club to offer the youngster a deal."

Managing director Lee Carter said: "We've been very impressed with Zak – almost to an eye-opening degree.

"We'll work with his family closely as he must concentrate on his studies and pursue a very promising academic career.

"He'll continue to take part in his school football too as it's important he remains within his peer group."

Lilly could make his debut in tomorrow's opening friendly at Shifnal Town in the Shropshire Senior Cup semi-final.

And the youngster has relished training with the first team and is looking forward to playing senior football at the New Bucks Head.

"To be honest, I didn't find it too daunting," he said.

"They don't go easy in training just because I'm young and I wouldn't want them to either.

"I'm looking forward to testing myself in an established league against men's teams.

"I spent quite a few years at West Bromwich Albion's academy before being released, which was a bit gutting.

"But I'm very happy to sign for Telford.

"I'm obviously delighted to be given the chance to play for Telford and I am determined to grasp this opportunity."