FORMER Coventry City winger Ray Woods could hold the key to Worcester City's fortunes in years to come.

The former Premiership player is youth development officer at St George's Lane and is in the process of selecting around 20 teenagers aged 16 to 17-year-olds for a two-year apprenticeship.

The scheme is being run in association with Worcester College of Technology and as well as learning skills on the pitch the players will pick up qualifications to help them find careers outside of football.

"It is like the YTS schemes that football clubs run but instead of the daily chores of league clubs the morning is taken up with lessons at the college with the afternoon given over to football," said Woods.

"They will play under the banner of Worcester City in the Midland Floodlit League and in Worcester Premier League on Saturdays.

"We have advertised extensively and got players coming for trials from as far afield as Birmingham, Bridgnorth, Dudley and Stourbridge.

"Thirty six players are coming for trials including one lad from Germany."

Woods, who started off as an apprentice with Tranmere Rovers, has a wealth of experience and says he will make the youngsters better players even if they don't make the grade at this level or higher.

"I will make them better physically, technically and mentally irrespective of what happens," he said.

"How far they progress is down to them but with the college links they will have something to fall back on if it doesn't work out.

"I have got good connections at Coventry City and they have said if I get anybody who could be good enough to give them a call."

Ultimately Woods is hoping to produce players for Worcester's first team.

"If they are good enough we will give them the chance whether it's with City or at a higher standard."

As part of his community role, Woods will be going into local schools with first team players such as Mark Owen, to encourage and coach youngsters.

During the summer Worcester City are running a fun week for seven to 11-year-olds from Monday, August 6 to Friday, August 10.

As well as trained coaches there will be first team squad members on hand to give advice.

For full details call City on 01905-23003.