The Celts are in the process of establishing an under-18 youth development programme in conjunction with Park Lane College.

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They currently have 18 players for the programme – which would see youngsters combine quality football coaching with a two-year further education course – and have six more places up for grabs to start this coming September.

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Former Leeds United defender Mark Jackson, who combines playing with coaching duties at Throstle Nest, said it is ideal for school leavers with a keen football interest who have not been taken on by a professional club.

Jackson said: "It's a two-year course, they would have an educational qualification at the end of it, get a hell of a lot of coaching and play football at a high standard.

"If lads have missed out on the chance to progress with a pro' club and play higher up, rather than drop out of the game altogether this could offer them a way back."

Youngsters would get nine hours' of coaching each week from Jackson and Celtic striker Steve Torpey, the former Bradford City, Scunthorpe United and Swansea player.

They would also play for a newly-formed Celtic under-18s side in the FA Conference Youth League.

Representatives from Park Lane College will be available to discuss the academic content of the course at the trials day at Throstle Nest on Thursday, April 3.

Any current Year 11 students interested in attending the trials, which run from 1pm, should contact Jackson on 07881 803555 for further details.

Meanwhile, Jackson is convinced any players who do progress through the ranks to the first team at Throstle Nest will have the chance to play in the Blue Square Premier. Celtic have been embroiled in a relegation fight this season but are currently undergoing something of a revival following a busy few weeks in the transfer market for boss John Deacey at the start of the year.

Jackson believes that activity is now paying off.

He said: "The new players who have come in have done well, but it also gives other players a so-called kick up the backside.

"We have a big squad now, everyone is fighting for places, and that's a healthy thing to have at a football club.

"I am confident we will stay up. We have had a decent run, we have been pleased with it, but there are 10 games left and we just have to keep it going until the end of the season.

"I have played in this league before, anyone can beat anyone on any given day, and the team who has that bit of consistency will achieve things – whether that's promotion or avoiding relegation."