It was a very big day for seven young men today as they took the first steps along the road to becoming professional footballers.

It was the first day of pre-season for the new intake of first year scholars at the club, all of whom have two years to show what they can do. The players will join second year scholars James Dobson, Niall Hodgkins, Adam Bowerman, Marvin Martin, Imani Likita and Jack Smith in representing the club at under 18 level and will also continue their education under the supervision of Ed Duckham.

The new players are Jamie Connor, a midfielder from Reading, Sam Parrish (defender/midfield from Didcot), Conor McDonagh (Midfield, Cowley), Daniel West (Midfield, Thame), Matty Willett (Defender, Headington), Aaron Woodley (Striker, Abingdon) and Henry Owen (Defender, Kirtlington)

After an 8.30 welcome and induction from Les Taylor, Ed Duckham and Mickey Lewis the youngsters were issued with their new Nike training kit and then settled down to the first of many days of hard work.

Les Taylor told us:

"It is an exciting day for the lads, and for the club. They have all shown that they have talent and ability and we believe they have the drive and heart to develop over the next couple of years. We are proud to have them with us and now it really is up to them. We will guide and help them as much as we can, but what we are looking for is that something special that you need to make it as a professional. They have a fantastic opportunity, one which kids up and down the country dream of, and now the real hard work starts for them and they have a chance to shine."