By Jon Couch
ISAAC VASSELL reckons the opportunity is out there for Non-League players to shine – and he should know, having just completed a dream move to Birmingham City.
The 23-year-old striker was playing in National League South for Truro City a year ago before attracting the interest of League Two Luton Town.
Now, the former Plymouth Argyle youngster is planning for life in the Championship after signing a four-year deal with Harry Redknapp’s side.
Vassell completed his big move in the week that another former Non-League Hatter, striker Andre Gray, joined Watford from Burnley in an £18 million move.
And the former White Tigers ace reckons it’s proof that opportunities do exist for ambitious young players outside the top four divisions.
“The advice I would give to any player is just go for it and work hard,” he said. “If you put the hard work in then you can get to where you want to be. There are so many examples out there.
“When I was with Truro City, I was doing some building work. It was something I had to do – and it made me even more driven to get where I needed to be.
“Jamie Vardy has shown everyone just that just because you’re playing in Non-League football, it doesn’t mean big things can’t happen for you.
“Hopefully I can achieve half of what he did and do really well in the Football League. I’m so excited by the opportunity.”
