An ex-footballer made a special appearance at a school in Redditch this week to offer students some words of wisdom ahead of their game at Wembley.
Pupils at Walkwood CE Middle School were told to "follow their dreams" by former Blues striker Clinton Morrison after they reached the championship final of the upcoming Utilita Kids Cup.
The competition is a national tournament for junior footballers which offers children the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play a match at Wembley Stadium.
The young team, representing West Bromwich Albion, got a special visit from Morrison during an assembly on Wednesday (May 1) where he provided a rousing team talk.
EFL Ambassador Clinton Morrison said: "I remember my school teams but we didn't play like this. It's great what Utilita and the EFL are doing with the Kids and Girls Cups. I think it's fantastic and a great way for the kids to come out and showcase their abilities.
"I would've loved the opportunity to play in tournaments like this. I do remember a 5-a-side tournament I had when we were younger, we got to meet Ian St John and Jimmy Greaves as they gave us our winners medals and that was huge.
"It's memories like this that you never forget as a kid."
Following the inspirational talk, the team jumped in a minibus and headed over to Redditch United's stadium where they took part in a training session.
The training was led by coaches from the WBA Trust and Morrison where they tuned up the squad for one of the final times before their upcoming moment at the home of football.
Morrison said: "This is massive for them. You'll get some young kids with a lot of talent but having a good coach to tell them it's not just about the individual player but that they need to work together is one of the most important sporting lessons you learn at a young age.
"They need to go and enjoy it as this occasion might never happen again for some of them, so it's important that they enjoy the moment.
"Work hard but be sure to lap it up and if you're scoring goals, go and celebrate, knee slides and everything."
The team will play St Patrick's Catholic Primary School, who are representing Southampton, in the final.
The teams will take to the pitch ahead of an EFL Championship play-off final in May.
Following the visit, the headteacher of Walkwood CE Middle School, Caroline Lowe, said: "It was a great privilege to welcome Clinton Morrison to Walkwood CE Middle School yesterday afternoon. The pupils were incredibly excited as they listened intently to his inspirational words of encouragement and support.
"This was a memorable experience for all, and one which our pupils will cherish. We are so proud of the achievements of our football team who have trained hard, showing commitment, dedication and great sporting spirit.
"The pupils, staff and our families will be cheering them on when they step out onto the pitch at Wembley Stadium. This is a proud moment for Walkwood CE Middle School."
Morrison added: "They've got some good players. I've seen some strong strikes and nice passing so I think they've got a good chance.
"Southampton have always had good footballing schools so it's going to be difficult, but I think the West Brom team can do it and I'll be cheering them all the way."
Massive thank you to @morrisonclinton for dropping by @WalkwoodSchool today and sharing his wisdom! We look forward to seeing you at the @EFL Championship play-off final! @UtilitaFootball @RedStand @WBAFoundation @Redd_Advertiser #clintonisawalkwoodfan pic.twitter.com/boUbQ5mf8O
— Walkwood School (@WalkwoodSchool) May 1, 2024
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