INVERCLYDE youngsters are particularly lucky at being chosen as mascots for massive football matches.

Lots of them have been selected over the years, and one of the most outstanding examples has to be an Inverkip boy teaming up last week with the world’s most expensive player.

Eight-year-old Jaydan Singh was paired with Brazilian superstar Neymar at Celtic’s Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain.

This was an occasion Jaydan and his family will never forget. No wonder they were so thrilled. Not only walking out with PSG, but actually with the bold Neymar!

Giving kids the chance to become mascots is a great way to encourage them to work hard at their football and always strive to do their best.

What an inspiration it must be for young players to appear in a big stadium alongside their heroes.

Countless youngsters around the world no doubt dream of becoming the next Neymar. The former Barcelona player hit the headlines earlier this year when he left the Catalan giants, saying he did it for the challenge.

Apparently he felt he was overshadowed at Barca by Argentinian Lionel Messi (as you would!) and that he had a better chance of making an even bigger name for himself in Paris.

His departure must have been a blow to the many Barcelona tourist outlets who make a mint selling various replica items relating to their team.

Hopefully some of our young players will reach such legendary status!