James Horsfield hails from Hazel Grove and has been with City for eight years. Horsfield appeared for City EDS in the NextGen Series last season and the experience will no doubt hold him in good stead for the season ahead.

The midfielder captained the under-16s last season and perhaps his proudest moment in a City shirt came when he scored the winning goal in February’s derby against Manchester United. Horsfield is a versatile member of the squad, too, filling in at full-back when needed to aid his side.

Horsfield is a midfield lynchpin, described by the Academy as a born leader with a great eye for a pass. James made his debut for City u18s in March 2012 featuring for the Blues in their 3-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday.