Clydesdale Bank Premier League Exit Trials a hit

The Clydesdale Bank Premier League Exit Trials took place at Broadwood Stadium on Thursday evening and proved a big success, with around 50 young players from the SPL involved.

The group were coached by Neil McCann, John Robertson, Allan Preston and John Blackley prior to the four matches that were held at the home of Clyde Football Club.

A large number of scouts, coaches and managers from both sides of the border took in the trials, which gave players being released by SPL clubs a chance to catch the eye.

Ex-Rangers and Hearts winger McCann was impressed by the standard and said: "It's important the lads lift their heads and make the most of this opportunity. It's a fantastic chance. Managers love the idea of finding a rough diamond. They want to polish them up and help make them stars."

Motherwell forward Darren Smith was one of those involved and he is hopeful of getting fixed up with a new club following his release from Fir Park after eight years with The Steelmen.

He told The Scottish Sun: "I'm a bit older than some, so that maybe makes things a wee bit harder. I'll probably put a bit of extra pressure on myself because of that, but it's great exposure.

"There's a lot of coaches here who want to watch you, so I just need to play as well as I can and hope someone spots me. I know what I can do. I'm confident in my own ability and I'm pretty sure I'll be able to get a team. I'm sure I can cut it at a good level."