CHAMPION schoolboy boxer Ryan Ball is going for glory as he gets set to step into the ring in Russia.

The 15-year-old Greenock starlet, a two times British champ, now has his sights set on landing some knockout blows at the European Championships in Anapa.

His trainer Danny Lee says that Ryan is one of the best talents he has ever worked with.

But Danny warned the youngster has to knuckle down and put in the hard work to earn his place at the top of the sport. Danny, of Greenock Boxing Club, said: “Ryan has the talent to be the most successful boxer ever to come out of Inverclyde. Given the talent that is here, that would be very impressive.

“But he has to keep working hard. With people who have huge talent, you have to try to keep their feet on the ground.

“It is a great achievement to get to the European Championships. He has a great chance and I expect him to come home with a medal. But in boxing it is sometimes about the politics and we will just have to wait and see.” Notre Dame pupil Ryan would do well to follow in the footsteps of his older brother Sam, who has made a big name for himself in the ring.

Danny added: “His brother is a great example of someone who works hard. He has won the British titles three times.” Greenock boxer Ryan has just returned from an intense training session with the Scotland camp and will fly out to Black Sea town of Anapa for ten days with the seven-strong squad for the AIBA international boxing association contest.

Speaking to the Tele, Ryan said: “I am really looking forward to going to Russia and will be trying my best to win.” On his arrival will prepare himself for the weigh in before getting set to fight in the 52 kilo division.

Danny added: “For a young boy the hardest bit is often making the weight. It is a real challenge.” Ryan has already had experience of a previous European Championships in Dublin – but the feeling from his coach is that his time has now come to prove himself a worthy champion.

Like scores of youngsters in Inverclyde, Ryan found his way to the Greenock Boxing Club gym run by Danny.

Danny added: “Ryan first came along to the club to get fit to play football and has developed from there.” Ryan now trains five days a week in the gym that has produced the likes of John Simpson.