A YOUNG footballer is 'Rover' the moon after penning a deal with a Scottish professional club.

Inverclyde Academy pupil Dylan Steel has signed for Albion Rovers' under 21s side after years of playing for local amateur and school teams.

The 17-year-old was spotted by talent scouts in unusual circumstances.

He said: "I was playing for an amateur team called Morton Athletic and we played a game against Albion Rovers' under-21s.

"We ended up getting beat 12-0 but their coach approached me after the game and asked me if I'd like to come for trials.

"I travelled to Coatbridge for them and I was so nervous, but when they asked me to sign I was delighted.

"It's a big step up, but I love the challenge.

"Football's my life, it's what I love doing."

Dylan first began playing the game aged five, but he says that he didn't start taking the sport seriously until he went to high school.

While playing with the school team, Dylan also signed for Greenock United.

After a brief hiatus from football in his mid-teens he joined Port Glasgow Boys Club.

As well as playing football, Dylan says that he also watches games 'constantly' and is an avid Morton and Chelsea supporter.

His footballing idols include Frank Lampard and John Terry.

He added: "I've been going to Cappielow since I was 11.

"My grandpa took me to my first game.

"I've got a season ticket this year and I try to go to as many away games as possible."

Since joining Albion, the coaches at the Coatbridge club have moved Dylan into a new position as a striker.

Dylan hopes that his move can be the first step in a long football career.

His PE teacher Chloe Havlin, who has taught him for three years, is delighted to see him get picked up by a senior club.

She said: "Dylan's got amazing potential.

"He's fearless going into tackles and loves his football.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for him and I'm sure he'll be a great success."