Basildon soccer girl Nicolle Taylor may be a keen Manchester United fan . . . but she's pledging her future to West Ham.

The 11-year-old Barstable School pupil has signed up for Hammers under-13 girls side and wants to make a career in the pro game later in life.

Taylor-made for a bright soccer future - Basildon girl Nicolle Taylor. Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

Mum Sandy said: "Although my husband originally comes from the West Ham area, we're not really a football orientated family. However, Nicolle's always loved the game and since she was really small has wanted to be out kicking a ball.

"She first played the game seriously at her junior school, Fairhouse, where her teacher Colin Wilkinson was a tremendous inspiration.

"It was him who advised us that Nicolle had great enthusiasm coupled with good skill and told us to get her extra coaching. She signed on for Hammers after taking part in the West Ham in the Community coaching sessions at Gloucester Park."

Published Friday November 1, 2002

Brought to you by the Evening Echo