MANCHESTER UNITED have handed a trial to a trio of Trinidad and Tobago teenagers, despite looking likely to lose their compatriot Dwight Yorke in the near future.
With Yorke believed to be heading for the Old Trafford exit door, the Caribbean influence at the club could still be maintained if Nkosi Blackman, Kenwyne Jones or Jerol Forbes impress during their ten-day stint in Manchester.
Former Tottenham defender Terry Fenwick helped set up the trip for the talented trio, who will pick up some invaluable experience, whatever happens to them in England.
"I got the news when I got home from school yesterday," revealed Joe Public star Blackman.
"I was told I would be leaving this weekend for a trial with Manchester United. Then things got real when I found out that we would be leaving on Wednesday.
"I'm still shocked actually."
Blackman has previously been on trial with Piacenza and is tipped to follow Yorke in making a big name for himself in Europe.
Forbes plays for Naparima College, and is just as excited about the opportunity to rub shoulders with the likes of David Beckham and Juan Sebastian Veron.
"I've been able to sleep but it's like a dream come true," he admitted. "This trial is a stepping stone for me, and it's an opportunity to become the second player from our country to play for United."
Jones added his enthusiastic thoughts to the proceedings, stating: "I want to make a name for myself, and I'm looking forward to meeting the entire team."