A YOUNG footballer’s goalscoring feats have shattered records at his age level in a North-East league.

Russell Bradley’s 92-goal season with Easington Colliery AFC’s under-nines team has landed him the Russell Foster League’s equivalent of the golden boot. It also beat the previous best at under-nine level by four goals.

Proud father Barry said Russell is a late convert to the forward role, having begun his playing days as a midfield player, aged six.

He said: “He started as a midfielder with Bowburn youth team, but he was scoring a lot from there and ended up being switched to become striker.

“Obviously it’s a team game, but the striker has to do his bit and score.

“But he’s just not stopped scoring all season, getting six in one game and four in the first trophy match.”

His efforts have helped earn his side promotion, and have caught the eye of coaches at Sunderland AFC Academy where he now trains each week.

Russell, of Gilesgate, Durham, will receive the top scorers’ trophy at next month’s league presentation.