Twenty-three-year-old Trinidad and Tobago central midfielder Densill Theobold is set to become the latest addition to the growing list of British-based footballers after Scottish Premier League (SPL) club Falkirk declared their interest to sign him yesterday evening.
Falkirk and Theobold must still meet to discuss personal terms but the Caledonia AIA/Fire midfielder is delighted at the prospect of moving to Europe.
"It is a dream come true," said Theobold, who spent the past two weeks on loan at the club. "It is the start I always wanted. I always wanted to get into the system and now I can think I can just push on and get even better."
Theobold was at Falkirk's stadium yesterday as his soon-to-be employers held league leaders, Hearts, to a 2-2 draw and he also watched them fall 2-1 in the CIS Cup to Celtic in extra time last week.
The international player admitted that he was taken aback by the passion of the British game.
"The fans make the games very entertaining," he said. "I have been taking in the atmosphere in the stadium and it is just amazing. I can't wait to be wearing a Falkirk jersey and not just sitting in the stands."
Thirty-seven-year-old Falkirk player/coach and Trinidad and Tobago star Russell Latapy, who recommended Theobold to the club in the first place, praised the player's attitude during his trial.
"(Falkirk manager John) Hughes liked what he saw and he just wants to work out a package now for Densill," said Latapy. "Because I have been away from Trinidad football for so long, I didn't see Densill play before I rejoined the (national) team, although I have heard of him from my brothers.
"I think he has good technique and a good brain and engine, so I am very happy for him that he has gotten this chance. What happens from now is up to Densill."
Falkirk are one of the few clubs in Scotland that builds their game around passing on the ground and Theobold is certain that he will fit into their philosophy of play.
He left Scotland this morning to rejoin the national team and hopes to contribute his renewed enthusiasm to Trinidad and Tobago's quest to qualify for the 2006 World Cup in Germany.
"This news has definitely given me a confidence booster," said Theobold. "If (T&T head coach Leo Beenhakker) gives me a chance, I can't wait to show what I can do in these crucial games now for my country."