Tom Eastman wants to follow in the footsteps of Ian Westlake by becoming the next professional footballer from Clacton.
The 16-year-old has just been offered a two-year apprenticeship at Ipswich Town - the same club that Westlake made his name with before moving on to Leeds United.
In a strange twist, Eastman knows Westlake well, attends his old school - Clacton County High School - and, like the midfielder, used to be involved with Clacton Swimming Club.
In another bizarre coincidence, his family home is in the town's Eastcliff Avenue - a couple of doors away from the Westlakes.
Eastman, a centre-half, told the Gazette: "Ian's an inspiration in terms of what happened to him and where his career has taken him.
"Hopefully I can follow in his footsteps.
"Finding out about the apprenticeship was great news and very exciting.
"I've been with the club since I was seven and progressed through the various youth teams.
"But it was between me and one other player for the last apprenticeship spot - and they gave it to me."
Clacton-born Westlake made 133 appearances for Ipswich between 2002 and 2006, scoring 19 goals.
He then moved on to Leeds in August 2006.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article