by Jeff King
Chester's attacking midfielder/forward Michael Spellman has been rewarded for his fantastic efforts this season by being invited for a trial with Sunderland U-23s. The highly talented teenager has being having a stellar campaign with goals and assists a-plenty.
Without being in any way disrespectful to the Wearside League many feel that Michael's more than capable of playing at higher level. The Wearside League appearances against some strong physical senior opponents has given him a great opportunity to showcase his considerable abilities.
It's lead to him being offered a trial with SAFC and he made his debut last Monday for them coming on for the last 20 minutes in the home side's 2 - 1 defeat against Wolverhampton.
Interestingly enough he came up against Lewis Lembikisa's brother Dexter who played the full 90 minutes for Wolves at right-wing back. Michael's twenty minute cameo will have done him no harm at all.
He kept things simple. Moving the ball on well when given it. Covering back well when needed and certainly didn't look out of place. He made one very dangerous run into the box in typical style and was just squeezed out by the Wolves defence. He almost got on the end of a dangerous cross when ghosting in unmarked at the back post.
It was promising and with SAFC U-23s due to play Nottingham Forest on Monday at Eppleton CW there's every chance that he'll be given another opportunity to show what he's capable of.
I've been told that he's fitted in well with the group, training with them all week. His eye for a goal and fearless attitude of shooting when placed well has caught the eye. I was also told that in a shooting competition he did very well hitting the target on almost every occasion.
We all know that it's hard to break through at the professional level but after the way Michael's played this season it's a chance he deserves. With his excellent attitude and commitment we know he'll give it his best shot.
We all at United wish him well and the very best of luck going forward.