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As the Digicel Kick Start Clinics continue to roll through the Caribbean, England and Liverpool legend and Kick Start Head Coach, John Barnes on Saturday chose the top three lucky boys to go through to the Digicel Academy.

Commenting on the talent he found in St. Kitts and Nevis, John Barnes, said; “Considering the size of the country – with only 53,000 people, the standard of talent is probably the highest in the Caribbean per capita. What’s really great to see is the level of importance that the St. Kitts and Nevis Football Association places on youth development – and it shows in the discipline of the boys, their time-keeping and their attitude. I was very pleased with St. Kitts and Nevis – as I always am.”

The three boys chosen from St. Kitts and Nevis, 16 year old Raheem Francis and 15 year-olds, Tahir Hanley and Jamar Smith, will join their counterparts from across eight other countries in the Caribbean, Central America and the United States at the week-long Digicel Academy in October this year. The region’s top talent will be put through their paces by coaches from Chelsea FC in Barbados where they will experience what life is like as a professional footballer.

Speaking on securing his place in the Academy, Tahir Hanley, said; “I felt so happy when I heard my name being called out by John Barnes – and I am so happy for my two team mates, Raheem and Jamar. We are truly excited to go to Barbados and train under the Chelsea coaches.”

The final leg of the Clinics takes place in Jamaica this week as John Barnes searches for the region’s top footballing talent.