Young players at GN15 Football Academy, Gatley, welcomed an inspirational visitor this month, as Premier League player Jesse Lingard called in for a kick-about. 

GN15 co-founder Nick Pollitt describes arriving at the training venue before the GN15 session began, and finding Jesse Lingard hosting his own private session on the same site.

Nick initially asked him if he would take some pictures with the GN15 players. Not only did Jesse do so, but he also took time to have a kick-about with them, too.

"The kids were buzzing", Nick said. "Not only did he pose for photographs, but he also took the time to play football with them. This absolutely made our kids' day and we're very thankful to Jesse for that."

Jesse Lingard is perhaps most well-known for his stint at Manchester United, in spells from 2011-22. He has, however, also played for West Ham, Nottingham Forest, Brighton, Leicester, Birmingham City, and Derby County. He has also been an England stalwart, making 32 appearances for the international first team.

Jesse passes on some of his knowledge to the GN15 players (Image - GN15)

It was an inspiring visit for GN15, which prides itself on making football accessible to all young players, regardless of economic background, race, or disability. 

The academy was set up by Nick and co-founder Gaz Lewis. Nick is a qualified UEFA C coach who has spent many years working with grassroots football clubs; Gaz is a FA qualified coach who coaches football full time across Cheshire. 

Describing the academy, Nick said: "We're a community football company that provides a fun, inclusive session to a group of children with a wide range of additional needs. We take pride in what we do as we believe football should be for everyone."

Training sessions are open to any girl or boy aged between five and 11. No membership is required - visitors can simply pay for the sessions they attend. 

Stockport has already produced two top young players in City's Phil Foden and United's Kobbie Mainoo - why shouldn't the next big star come from GN15? 

Find more information on the GN15 Facebook page HERE.

~

Free from clickbait, pop-up ads and unwanted surveys, Stockport Nub News is a quality online newspaper for our town.

To get our top stories in your inbox each week, subscribe to our free weekly newsletter HERE.

Please consider following Stockport Nub News on Facebook or Twitter