The Liverpool FC Foundation college has become the first of its kind in Merseyside to gain Category 1 status with the English Colleges Football Association League (ECFA).

This now means that from September 14, the Foundation college will play against some of the most established colleges from around the country.

After being Dallas Cup finalists, Floodlit Cup winners, ECFA cup winners, finalists and semi-finalists as Category 2 entrants over the past three years, the young Reds have already set the standards high.

The U19 team will face an exciting start to the season, facing Accrington and Manchester City. Pre-season will also see the group face Manchester United, Sydney FC, Derby County and Doncaster Rovers.

There are still some places remaining at the college for September 2014; there are open sessions with matches and training at the LFC Academy in Kirkby on August 5, 7, 12, 14 and 19, between 5pm and 7pm.

To reserve a place, please call 0151 724 4983. Student enrolment is on August 21 and 22 at Wyncote Sport Ground, Mather Avenue, L18 6HF.