Matt's on the ball in Brazil (From Stroud News and Journal)

Matt's on the ball in Brazil

WORLD Cup hero Ronaldo had better watch out for County youngster Matt Young who is set to make a name for himself as a professional footballer in Brazil.

While soccer superstars Brazil bask in World cup glory, Matt is gearing up for the chance to rub shoulders with football's finest.

The News & Journal spoke to the aspiring footballer as he waited for the national media to descend on his home last week.

Matt,17, a former pupil from Wycliffe College in Stonehouse has been offered a six month contract after completing a five week trial with Piraclcaba, who play in the Brazilian second division.

Matt who lists Brazilian forward Ronaldo as one of his heroes, has trod an unlikely path to the land of the Samba beat.

"I was released from Swindon Town as a youngster as they said I was too small so I'm absolutely delighted to be given this opportunity," he said.

Matt is indebted to Cirencester Town official Paul Cooper who gave the former Wycliffe pupil this once in a lifetime opportunity.

Matt said: "Paul is connected with a company called Soccer Futuro which is based in America and sends young players over to Brazil and he has been a massive influence on my career."

Matt is confident he will adapt to the change in lifestyle.

He said: "It will certainly be a big change and Piraclcaba is a remote area and two hours outside Sal Palo, but I just can't wait to begin my career."