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Blades go continental in scholarship scheme
SHEFFIELD United have established a scholarship programme at Ferencvaros.
The pioneering scheme, which combines football and education, is designed to mirror the one youngsters in South Yorkshire follow.
Three prospects from one of United's development partners in Manchester travelled to Hungary last season while Oscar Radford - an aspiring professional already known to Ron Reid and his staff - is scheduled to enrol next week.
"It replicates exactly what the lads here do," Reid, United's academy director, said. "Oscar was offered the chance to go out there and I took his parents out to have a look too.
"They were all happy with it and so he's preparing to go.
"We've got these associations all over now - it was initially the brainchild of chairman Kevin McCabe - and it allows us to widen the net.
"There's a far bigger pool of talent which we can draw upon now."
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One obvious benefit is that United can retain a link with up-and-coming players who, for a variety of reasons, might find opportunities in short supply closer to home.
Ferencvaros, the 28-time Hungarian champions, were bought by one of McCabe's firms 16 months ago and gained promotion last term. They are the most recognisable name on United's global portfolio which includes Chengdu Blades (China) and Central Coast Mariners (Australia).
It also provides a safety net for those charged with grooming Bramall Lane's next generation.
Kyle Naughton and Kyle Walker, two of United's most exciting performers during the 2008/09 campaign, both graduated from Shirecliffe in recent years, while Sam Wedgbury, Matt Lowton and Liban Abdi were integral members of the Ferencvaros squad which romped towards the NBII title.
Wedgbury and Lowton recently agreed new contracts with United but will remain at the Stadion Albert Flrin until a review in January.
Radford represented Ferencvaros at the Ferenc Puskas Under-16 Tournament which attracted representatives from, among other clubs, Real Madrid and Bratislava.
He will also use his time in Hungary to earn more formal qualifications.
Mike Reid, United's education chief, told The Star: "They have to undertake a distance learning course in conjunction with Dearne Valley College who work closely with us. A couple of lads have already piloted it and it seems to work well.
"It involves distance learning over the internet where they are in touch with a tutor. They have been working towards B-Tec certificates or diplomas in sport.
"It enables them to see the theory behind what they are doing on the pitch and other important issues like nutrition.
"I'd like to think it also helps to make them more rounded individuals too."
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Weather for Sheffield
Saturday 26 May 2012
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