7 Elite Academy’s partnership with AFC Liverpool will take a further step forward when the club’s Under-18s players face Ramsbottom in the FA Youth Cup at Rossett Park on September 2^nd (7pm).

The prestigious competition – which features Premier League sides in later rounds – regularly serves as a competitive springboard for the best Under-18s players.

Rossett Park was the venue for Marine’s FA Cup encounter with Tottenham Hotspur in December 2020 and often hosts AFC Liverpool senior games.

AFC Liverpool have a close working relationship with 7 Elite Academy, as part of a pathway for players from youth level to the senior side.

That pathway also offers educational opportunities for youngsters when they reach 16, as well as the chance to study and play in the United States and Africa.

Anthony Godfrey, Technical Director at 7 Elite Academy, said: “Playing in the FA Youth Cup is one of the highlights of any player’s career and it will be for this year’s group.

“Ask any professional players in the UK about the FA Youth Cup and they will tell you how important it is in building vital experience against top clubs.

“By working closely with AFC Liverpool, 7 Elite Academy is offering youngsters a way to reach senior football while gaining a solid education and experience of working life.

“Our academies in the United States and Tanzania are already seeing players from the UK arrange college applications and scholarships, and we want that to continue.

“This game is a key part of our pathway for players and young people not only just in Liverpool but also the surrounding areas of Merseyside, as the current Under-18s and Under-16s squad has players from all different parts of the North-West.”

AFC Liverpool Under-18s Manager, Scott Seddon, is looking forward to seeing his players in action in against their Lancashire rivals.

He said: “The FA Youth Cup is a great way for our players to start the season and build momentum throughout the squad.

“The fact that we’re playing at Rossett Park is absolutely brilliant for the lads and will really add to the big match atmosphere.

“There is a job to be done of course and we know Ramsbottom are a very tough side. They have an excellent setup and will be difficult to break down.

“If we can get through the preliminary and qualifying rounds, then who knows what opportunities we’ll have against professional clubs?”