Rochdale AFC's youngest ever player has proved his talent on the pitch and in the classroom after bagging top GCSE results.
Luke Matheson, 16, has had an unforgettable school year after becoming Dale's youngest player last September.
Top clubs including Manchester United and Liverpool are rumoured to be interested in the prodigy.
But on Thursday Luke was like any other teenager as he collected his GCSE results at Trinity C of E High School in Manchester.
Luke, who lives in Fallowfield, passed his GCSEs with flying colours after two years of juggling studies and a demanding training schedule.
The bright defender was top of the year at Trinity in P.E with a grade 8, and a 9 in history - the highest level under the new grading system.
Luke also got a 8s in Chemistry, Physics and R.E, 7s in English Language, Maths and Biology, a 6 in Spanish and a 5 in English literature.
The modest youngster said his achievements were simply down to hard work.
Luke told the M.E.N: "I just try hard and do my best in everything.
“Everyone at Rochdale , all my teachers and my parents have been so supportive.
“It’s not just me who’s done it. I managed thanks to all the people around me."
Luke, who came through the academy at Spotland, beat Dan Adshead’s record to become Dale’s youngest-ever player at 15 years and 336 days against Bury on his first day back in Year 11.
While football is his priority, Luke isn't taking anything for granted and will start his A levels at Trinity sixth form in a few weeks.
“The last year has been amazing," he added.
"Everything has happened so fast. I am so lucky.
“You do have to have some sort of skill but it just takes dedication.
“I have made a lot of sacrifices. I’ve stayed at home instead of going out with friends so I can do some extra training.
“Without Rochdale, I would be nothing. I’ve got them to thank for everything.
“This next year I’ll just keep playing football and moving in the right direction.
“I still want to get my A levels just in case.
“Yes I have done well for someone so young but you should always have a back up plan.”
Luke was given the day off to collect his results but the youngster was back in the gym by Thursday evening.
Proud dad Rob Matheson said: "He's a very level-headed and grounded.
"He's a clever lad but he also very motivated and focussed."
