Many youngsters dream of becoming a footballer and now, thanks to an American football scholarship, one Croydon boy is a step closer to that becoming a reality.

Isaiah Kossinne’s, who studied at Coulsdon College, moved to New York two years ago to study at Herkimer College in New York, after getting a place on their football programme.

A life-long Arsenal fan, 21-year-old Kossinne grew up playing football in Canterbury, often taking part in Crystal Palace run training schemes alongside the likes of Wilfred Zaha.

But after failing to land a deal with a club in the UK, Kossinne moved the States to pursue his dream.

And after helping Herkimer win back-to-back national and regional tournaments, the attack-minded midfielder feels it could not have worked out better for himself.

He said: “I simply love playing football and whether it be in the States or back in England I’d love to take up the opportunity to make a living out of it.

“Playing here has helped me develop a lot more as a player compared to how I would of if I was still in England.

“In the Sates I’m training day in day out, whereas back home I’d only be training twice a week.”

But Kossinne, who is studying business sports management, is far from forgetting his roots and believes he would not be the same player if he had grown up somewhere else. “Where I grew up has been a huge influence on how I play,” he added.

“Growing up in West Croydon, I spent most of my days playing football at Canterbury Park recreation ground.

“I love taking on players, especially in one on one situations and Canterbury Park is where I learnt how to do all my tricks and skills.”

Kossinne got his scholarship through Soccer Icon, a scheme which helped Australian international Tim Cahill in the early stages of his career.

Kossinne said: “I’m still only young and learning the ropes.

“Many players come to America and then move back to England and start playing for different teams.

“I feel it’s all about catching a break in football, and if you get it you had better go and run with it.”