A 22-year-old homeless man is hoping to kick-start a career in football coaching by taking part in trials for a World Cup Team.

Scott Haines has been homeless since coming to Bradford from London a year ago. When he arrived, Bradford Nightstop helped him find shelter at a hostel.

Since then he has lived in hostels across the district, and for a three-week period slept rough on the streets.

Scott said his life turned a corner after his key worker, Bradford City Centre Project's Joe Beverley, nominated him to take part in the Big Issue trials for the England 2007 Homeless World Cup Team.

The trials take place on January 31 at Manchester United's Old Trafford ground.

Scott, who lives at a hostel in Otley Road, Undercliffe, Bradford, needs to raise money to fund his travel expenses and is also in desperate need of equipment.

He said: "The main reason I'm trying to raise the money is because I don't get enough money through Job Seekers Allowance. I don't have stuff that I'm going to need like football boots."

The Liverpool supporter said he moved to Bradford hoping for a fresh start.

"I came to Bradford for a change of scene, I was hoping to get back on form and looking to get my own place again," he said.

Scott, who was in care as a child, quickly signed up to train and play in a football team organised by the Abundant Life Centre in Wapping Road.

Using borrowed sports gear he trains every Tuesday at the centre and takes part in games on Saturdays.

He said the trials would give him an opportunity to pursue his ambition even if he was not chosen for the final squad.

The final team of eight players will play in a World Cup tournament in Denmark in July.

Scott said: "I think it's giving homeless people a chance to do something they enjoy.

"I'm into football quite a lot and have been since I was a kid and the fact that I'm trying to get into coaching as well, anything to do with the sport will help.

"If I don't actually get into the team I might be able to ask them about coaching."

Anyone who can help Scott should telephone (01274) 742576.

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