Luke Woodland arrives on trial

Luke Woodland, a former English youth international who has recently switched allegiance to the Philippines, has arrived on trial, reports BigAppleSoccer. The trial was first mentioned by the Philippine Daily Inquirer last weekend.

The midfielder, 20, came through the Bolton youth system, but never played for the club. His only professional appearances came on loan with Oldham. He is currently without contract.

Woodland, who was born in the United Arab Emirates, is eligible for the Philippines through his mother. Coached by ex-Metro Thomas Dooley, he made his international debut in a World Cup qualifier in June.

"He can play deep in the midfield, he can play in the back," Jesse Marsch told BAS. "He's got some flexibility to his game, a good passer, a fairly good athlete."

Also on trial is Cameroonian defender Hassan Ndam, another product of "sports value chain" Rainbow FC Bamenda.