World at his feet

TALENTED EVERTON YOUNGSTER'S FOOTBALL PROGRESS FOLLOWED BY MILLIONS IN INDIA AND ASIA

- By JOE THOMAS EFC Correspondent

Rohan and Lisa have praised Everton's academy for their development of young players such as Urban

THE parents of a young footballer whose exploits have attracted global attention have spoken of their pride at his groundbreaking progress.

Urban Negi is just nine, but has already captured the imagination of millions, with many hoping he can become a trailblazer for the South Asian community.

That potential is “deeply moving” to his mum and dad, Lisa and Rohan. The importance of his story is not lost on the family, though right now their pride at his recent signing for Everton's academy is centred on its reflection of their son's passion and hard work.

Family footage of his progression is filled with images of the schoolboy smiling as he tears through defences and attempts new skills - inspired by the likes of his favourite Everton player Iliman Ndiaye, whose shirt he posed with when he was invited to Hill Dickinson Stadium to sign for the club last year.