Teenager makes debut for Hull City

Stepping out onto the pitch to play for Hull City's first

team at just 16-years-old was a dream come true for local boy

Liam Cooper.

The former Malet Lambert School pupil, from east Hull, made

his debut for the Tigers against Swansea City in the Carling

Cup.

The youngster, a regular in the under-18s youth side, was

spotted by City scouts while playing Sunday league football at

the age of 11.

He said: "Football has always been my passion. I've played

since the age of seven and supported City since I was about

five.

"I was a bit nervous at first, but once I got out there

playing, I could concentrate on the game. It was a dream come

true.

"I was chuffed to bits to be given the chance. It was great

to be a part of it. It is every kid's dream to play for their

local Premier League side.

"It is a really good learning curve to be playing amongst

the big names."

Liam, who plays centre forward, said he was pleased with his

performance and is looking forward to his next opportunity to

be able to play with the first team.

He said: "I thought I had a reasonable first half and I'm

pleased with my performance. I thought it went well.

Watching from the crowd at Swansea was Liam's proud mum

Michelle.

She said: "I'm really proud, he's wanted this all of his

life. I can't take it in, it is the type of thing you dream

of."

She added it was a memorable occasion, despite City crashing

to a 2-1 defeat.

Liam's younger brother may well be following in his

footsteps.

Joe, 15, currently plays in Hull City's under 16s youth

side.