ClubLFC Foundation youngsters inspired by trip to AXA Melwood Training Centre

The U9s spent a day with the Liverpool FC Women team, including a tour of their historic training facility, which was reopened earlier this season, and a chance to meet the players.

The girls were given the opportunity to experience a day in the life of a professional footballer and also took part in Matt Beard's squad's warm-up before watching their training session.

The visit gave the young players an insight into the squad's routine and inspired them to follow in their footsteps as they look to develop on their own journey.

Karl Carney, sport and football department manager for LFC Foundation, said: "It was a fantastic opportunity for us to bring our U9s to AXA Melwood to meet the women's first team and see what it's like to be a professional footballer.

"These players are role models to the young girls in the ETC and to be able to spend time with them, talk to them and watch them train was something they will remember for a long time."

LFC Foundation runs the FA Licenced Emerging Talent Centre for age groups U9, U11 and U13, offering increased playing time, varied football formats and a chance for players to play for both an ETC and a grassroots club, school or representative team.

This format is intended to enhance the variety of playing experiences for young female players to aid their development.

Any players who are interested in joining the ETC age groups across U9, U11 and U13 for 2024-25 can register their interest here.

LFC Foundation has also recently introduced the new Female Only Player Development Programme, which will launch for the 2024-25 season as part of the Foundation's enhanced female pathway.

Players can register their interest in this programme here, with age groups ranging from U8 to U11.