Accrington Stanley have snapped up two Burnley teenagers for Ged Brannan’s Development Squad as they aim to break into the first team.
Left back Matty Carson and midfielder Dylan Moonan were both with the Premier League side but came on trial with the Reds in the summer and earned professional contracts.
The deals are one-year with one-year options.
Carson, 18, is from Chester and admitted this is a big opportunity for him.
“I was at Liverpool for eight years until I was 14 but it was the best time for me to move on then. I had a trials at a few clubs and then Burnley offered me a trial and, within four weeks, I had signed for the Under 14s.
“I loved my time at Burnley – I had such good experiences like tours to Iceland and Prague.
“I was offered two-year scholarship but then I knew I wasn’t getting a professional contract and came on trial at Accrington, which Tony Philliskirk arranged.
“I was relaxed about my future as I believe in myself although my mum and dad were worried!
“I was offered a contract here and it’s a big opportunity for me. I know Rhys Fenlon from my time at Burnley and I have watched how he has got into the first team squad and he was really good in helping me settle in.
“John Coleman has said to me if you are good enough you will get the chance so it is a big time for me.
“As a left back, I like to go in to win a tackle but I like to go forward as well. I am a set piece taker as well and I have scored a few goals from free kicks and a few assists from corners.”
Moonan, 18, from Wigan, had been at Burnley since he was seven-years-old but is now ready for a new challenge.
“I was picked up from Sunday League and was at Burnley a long time, 11 years, and I was delighted to get a scholarship. I was obviously gutted I didn’t get a professional contract at Burnley but it doesn’t always work out and things happen for a reason.
“It was great as Matty and I came on trial at Accrington, we got instant exposure to the first team and when the gaffer pulled us in and said both myself and Matty had got professional contracts, we were over the moon.
“I am a box-to-box midfielder, probably more defensive minded, but I do go forward as well.
“Accrington have a good relationship with Burnley, Rhys Fenlon is here and Joel Mumbongo has come on a season long loan and it’s worked out well.
“I know if I am good enough I can progress to the first team and it’s a big chance for me to prove myself.”
Do you want to sponsor Matty and Dylan?
Our sponsorship packages are priced at £180 for home or away kit, or we offer a deal of £299 for both.
To find out more information, please contact our Commercial team on 01254 356950 (Option 3) or by emailing commercial@accringtonstanley.co.uk.