PERSHORE High School’s Jordan Cox is starting to turn a dream into reality after landing a two-year scholarship with Aston Villa.

The Year 11 pupil started playing football at the age of six for Pershore United with class-mates Grant Hiden, Scott Cory, Michael Butler, Alex Stayte, George Way, Harry White and Ryan Allibone.

Over a four-year period with United, attacking midfielder Cox nurtured his talent until he was spotted by Villa at the age of 10.

In 2008, he joined the Aston Villa academy where he attended training twice a week and played games on Sundays at their Bodymoor Heath training ground.

In matches, Cox found himself up against the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City.

He also played in international tournaments against European clubs such as Club Brugge and Borussia Monchengladbach.

Cox’s progress was such that as an under-16 he regularly featured in the under-18s squad.

After six years at Villa, Cox was given the good news that he had earned a scholarship to remain at Villa for a further two seasons.

A school spokesman said: “Together with ability, this is due to Jordan’s hard work, dedication and level-headedness.

“He has now given himself an excellent platform to progress and everybody wishes him the best of luck.”