New Delhi: Goa has once again stolen a march over Calcutta in giving a new dimension to talent hunt programme for youngsters.

On Wednesday, the All India Football Federation (AIFF), along with Goa Football Association and Bharti Airtel, launched the innovative talent identification and development programme powered by Manchester United Soccer Schools’ (MUSS) world famous coaching programme. The programme has been named Kick Off.

Starting Saturday, more than 5500 children will undergo trials for a week under the watchful and experienced eyes of MUSS officials at the Nehru Stadium in Margao.

Manchester United coach Sir Alex Ferguson is among many of those at MUSS who believe in India ’s football potential. “The potential for football’s growth in India is enormous… We are delighted to be involved in the further development of the game here,” Sir Alex said in a message.Hopefully, we can play a part in the vision of accelerating this development of young players in India , and helping youngsters to achieve their own potential through playing sport.”

A coaching team from MUSS will supervise the programme, assisted by Manchester United legend Brian McClair, head of Manchester United’s Youth Academy. From 5500 of the boys, 12 talented youngsters will get the chance to train for a week at MUSS, next summer.

“Two Goan coaches will accompany the players for the week-long course at Manchester United Soccer Schools,” Dale Hobson, head of operations said.