Livington teenager Coll Donaldson will spend January on trial at Manchester United, after chief scout Martin Ferguson requested a personal look at the 17 year old.

Donaldson is on the peripheral of The Lions' first team but while playing for the SPL side's reserve team was spotting by Ferguson and ha sinces been asked to attend a trial at United's Carrington training ground.

And Livingston chief executive Ged Nixon says the club won't stand in the way of the defender, who will go on trial at United later this month.

Martin Ferguson
ferguson has made a personal check on Donaldson.

"Coll was watched by Man United in a couple of reserve games and Martin Ferguson (chief scout) wondered if they could have a look at him," said Livingston chief executive Ged Nixon.

"They're looking after him and he'll train with them before they decide what they want to do.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for the boy. No matter what happens in the end, it will let him see what's out there and he'll train in fantastic surroundings at Carrington."

"It's recognition for what a lot of people are trying to achieve at this club."

The reserve team regular penned a new deal until the summer of 2015 last week, having earned a place in the first team squad for the trip to Cowdenbeath.

"Developing young footballers and helping them realise their potential is a key strategy for our club, and we're very pleased to have signed Coll on a new contract," Nixon said.

"He has been progressing well in our existing full time coaching structure and we have very high hopes for him going forward into the future."

Brother of manager Sir Alex, Martin is credited with having scouted the likes of Ruud van Nistelrooy, Diego Forlan and Anderson, all of whom have gone on to enjoy impressive careers at Old Trafford.

The Premier League leaders have a reputation for bringing through the finest young talent, having claimed the Youth Cup on 10 occasions, the most recent victory coming in 2011 on Ryan Tunnicliffe, Michael Keane and Will Keane, all of whom have since made first team appearances for United.

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