Sheffield Wednesday academy manager Sean McAuley has spoken of the Owls' link with Western Michigan University in America and the programme that will help progress his young players long term.

The university is a higher education establishment and will offer SWFC academy scholars not afforded professional contracts the opportunity to head Stateside and complete a degree whilst also playing a quality standard of football.

Thereafter, the players could hook up with MLS employers or return to Sheffield, where Wednesday will continue to monitor their development. In some outstanding cases, that could mean a professional contract the second time around.

University representative Stu Riddle recently visited Middlewood Road and McAuley told Wednesday World: "Stu came over come over from Western Michigan University on a fact- finding mission on our scholars.

"The ones who missed out on professional contracts may get the chance to play in America at Stu's university on a scholarship and that could be a great opportunity."

McAuley recognises the importance of a good education and believes the boys will get just that in America, whilst at the same time continuing to play competitive football at a high standard.

"The players go away and get their studies done whilst competing in what is the closest thing to professional football," McAuley explained.

"The ultimate aim for the lads is to become football players and this programme is an extension of what they are already doing here."

Riddle added: " It's a wonderful opportunity to watch the top coaches in action while I'm here, so for me it's an educational trip and seeing if there is anyone we can identify as potential future Western Michigan Bronco players."

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