19 year old, Jin Hui beat off
competition from 18,000 other young hopefuls to clinch the top
prize of a place in Everton’s academy.
Chinese officials claim that up to 130 million people watched as
Jin Hui make it through the selection process to win the
once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The programme and indeed, the final selection decision was
overseen by Everton Academy director Ray Hall. He praises the
honesty of the programme makers and explained that although Jin Hui
will spend time at Everton, he will not be guaranteed a spot in
David Moyes’ first team squad.
Hall said: “The prize is an experience at a Premier League club,
obviously our own. It wasn't about the winner 'will play for
Everton'.
"I think if Jin Hui achieves a professional contract anywhere
around the world then it will be a real achievement for him."
The winner himself told BBC Radio Merseyside: "There
are many people who like the English Premier League in China. I can
improve a lot through training and playing in the games."
