Ex-Scotland star John Collins at ‘wonderful’ training camp

Youngsters aged five to 14 flocked to North Berwick for a development programme run in partnership between North Berwick FC and Coerver Coaching.

The players enjoyed a week of expert coaching from professional staff, with Collins, who was capped 58 times for his country, on hand all week to provide coaching and expert tips from his playing career and time in management.

Collins, who lives near Aberlady, played for Celtic, Monaco and Everton, as well as playing for and managing Hibernian, where he lifted the Scottish League Cup.

He said: “I have been involved in Coerver since I was a young player. This week has been one of the best football clinics I have ever been involved in.

“The players have been hard working, engaged and full of energy.

“The Coerver method is hugely beneficial to all players, no matter their age/ability, helping to develop essential skills but also speed and game understanding. We can’t wait for the next programme in North Berwick.”

Ex-Celtic, Monaco and Everton midfielder John Collins was passing on tips to budding footballers in North Berwick

The coaching method is used throughout the world and has been used by top clubs including AC Milan and Bayern Munich.

Martin Brown, chairman of North Berwick Colts, described it as “a wonderful week”.

He said: “At the end of every session, there have been lots of tired and happy faces.

“I am delighted that we have been able to offer such an excellent and high-quality coaching here in North Berwick with such a brilliant partner as Coerver Coaching.”

Gordon Craig, Coerver Coaching Scotland director, added: “The club have been a fantastic host and the young players have shown great potential and enthusiasm over the week. This is only the first step and we look forward to continuing the partnership with the club to support their player and coach development.”