YOUNG striker Chris Allen has impressed Swindon Town coaches so much the 15-year-old has been playing in the club's U18 team.

The 15-year-old, from Wick Lane, Devizes, joined the Robins' youth academy four years ago and plays regularly with the U15s.

But the young striker stood out so much that his coaches decided to move him up two age groups to play with the more experienced U17s.

With five games under his belt at the higher level, as well as a cup appearance for the U18s, Allen is hoping he can one day turn professional with the Division Two club.

"It's been a good season for me so far," the Devizes School pupil said. "I'm top scorer in the U15s and I've played for the U17s and U18s as well.

"When I was told I was going to play with the older lads I was a little nervous and excited.

"But they were really good to me offering me advice and it went well."

This time next season the club will decide whether to offer Allen a scholarship to continue his football education.

He added: "Hopefully I will get a scholarship and my dream is to be a professional footballer.

"I want to play for Swindon Town and eventually play for Manchester United as well."

One of Allen's coaches, Swindon Town youth development officer Jim Fraser, said the club has high hopes for the youngster but are keen to keep his feet on the ground.

"Chris has been with us for several years and has been doing well this season with the under-15s," Fraser said.

"We are encouraging him as we do with all players and when someone stands out at in their age group we like to step them up into an older age group.

"Chris is a bright prospect but we want to make sure all of our young players keep their feet on the ground because there is still a long way to go."

Fraser added: "Chris will be looking to get a scholarship with the club next year and if he overcomes that hurdle not long after the next one is getting a professional contract.

"We are excited about Chris but like with a number of our other young players we want to keep them grounded.

"Leigh Mills recently captained the England youth team and was the only Division Two player alongside lads from Premiership clubs.

"But we need to make sure all the boys don't get carried away and we check to see that they have good attitudes towards schoolwork, training and in games."