FOOTBALL-mad Abigail Hunt is jumping for joy after signing for Manchester United.

The nine-year-old St Lukes pupil has been picked to play for the Premiership giants' under 11 squad as a goalkeeper.

Abigail, of Tarnway in Lowton, was spotted by United's scouts playing for local grass roots club Leigh Genesis.

The youngster, who has been playing football since she was seven, used to play for Golborne Sports Training before moving to play on a boys football team at Leigh Genesis — and also had a stint at Wigan Athletic.

Abigail has always had her eyes set on the big time and will now be training and playing with the Man United development squad at their training ground in Eccles.

Abigail, said: "I started playing football because my brother did and I wanted to be better than him.

"I wanted to play for Manchester United because they are a big club and they have Wayne Rooney. But my favourite player is David de Gea.

"I wanted to be a goalie because I like using my hands."

Abigail was also scouted to play for Everton but decided to choose Manchester United and will train with the club three times a week.

She added: I'm most looking forward to playing Everton because I will get to play against my friends.

"I'm really looking forward to playing in two weeks."

Her dad and mum, David and Deborah, said they are "chuffed to bits".

Mr Hunt said: "She is really looking forward to it and we are really proud how far she has come.

"She only started playing two years ago but she is such a focused girl and she is determined to be successful.

"Me and Deborah, her mum, couldn't be happier. We will always support her in whatever she wants to do."