New format for SPL exit trials

The Scottish Premier League are holding exit trials on Wednesday May 20 for players aged between 17 and 19 who have been released from SPL clubs.

The trials will be held at the Toryglen Regional Football Centre in the shadow of Hampden Park.

The fantastic new indoor facility has been chosen to host this year’s event, which will be attended by scouts from Premiership and Championship clubs in England, in addition to representatives from SPL and SFL clubs.

Former Scotland manager Craig Brown, ex-St Mirren, Aberdeen and Dundee United boss Alex Smith will be joined by Billy Dodds and Scott Booth to coach the players ahead of the 6pm start. 

The Scottish Sun and Setanta Sports are backing the event as media partners, raising its profile and the chances of the young players being picked up.

Iain Blair, Company Secretary of the SPL, said: “It is never easy for players when they are released and we want to help them in any way we can. These trials provide the ideal opportunity for players to showcase their talents in front of a wide range of scouts, managers and coaches from across the leagues.

“We are delighted to have people of the calibre of Craig Brown, Alex Smith, Billy Dodds and Scott Booth on board and that can only be of benefit to the young players. We hope this platform allows them to go on and further their careers with another club.”

If you would like to attend, or if you have players on your books who fit the criteria and wish to participate, please contact the SPL on 0141 620 4140 or via e-mail at [email protected].