SAM Wedgbury's dream move to Sheffield United is a remarkable success story for Worcester City and the 16-year-old.

Now we've witnessed Wedgbury's rapid rise from unknown academy hopeful to Sheffield scholar, do not be surprised if more City starlets climb into professional ranks.

Of course, the Wedgbury sale gives Worcester obvious benefits, such as a five-figure fee, a pre-season friendly and `work-experience' loan-back arrangement.

But an extra advantage is the encouragement it gives other young players groomed by Ray Woods at the club's football development scheme.

One look at Wedgbury's ascent to the Championship should be enough to convince Liam McDonald, Shabir Khan, Troy Wood and other City fledglings that they too can flee the St George's Lane nest to sunnier climes.

Wedgbury may soon be strutting his stuff on Premier League grounds and that must be the ambition to all youngsters breaking through the ranks.

By showcasing their gifts on the Nationwide North stage, there is a strong possibility that more Football League clubs will come beating on Andy Preece's door.

Although McDonald and Khan are no longer teenagers and have been involved in City's first-team for the past three seasons, it is never too late for the 20-year-olds to impress potential suitors.

Defender Khan had clubs sniffing after breaking into John Barton's side and midfielder McDonald is blessed with enough ability to step up a league or two.

Although not development scheme products, Danny Hodnett, Tom Warmer and Mark Danks should also feel there are big enough rewards to consistently hitting the heights at Worcester.

For the likes of Wood, Ben Walker, Gary Walker and Nat Bulmer, their chance to grab the limelight will happen by continuing to work hard at reserve and youth level.

Preece is not afraid of throwing inexperienced lads in ahead of those tried-and-tested, so their opportunities will surely come, perhaps towards the end of the current season if City fail in their play-off bid.

For Wedgbury, he has fulfilled every young footballer's fantasy by joining one of England's biggest clubs.

There will be a sense of pride among Worcester supporters if the Oldbury teenager progresses to carve out a successful career at the South Yorkshire giants.

Preece knows all about leaving the Lane for life in professional circles and he believes Wedgbury has the credentials to reach the top.

Technically, he has the lot. Wedgbury is a natural passer with excellent touch and control. He uses both feet and possesses the ability to find an extra yard of space in the centre of the park.

His finishing can be deadly too, as Bemerton Heath Harlequins found to their cost on his City debut, while his disallowed 20-yard effort against Accrington Stanley was sensational.

Aside from his skills with the ball, Wedgbury also has the right hard-work ethic, attitude and aptitude to succeed.

He is blessed with maturity beyond his years and can handle himself on the pitch. One moment in the FA Cup first round tie at Chippenham Town springs to mind.

After City took a goal lead, Town hard-man Wayne Thorne clobbered the teenager with a nasty foul, which left Wedgbury needing treatment.

Hobbling to the touchline, a handful of foul-mouthed home fans raged at the youngster. Wedgbury dusted himself down and, with a cheeky smile, signalled 1-0 with his fingers to the abusers.

Arrogant? Naïve? Possibly. But a sign to everyone that this kid completely looked the part.