Sampson's a Shrimp: released Bolton man joins Morecambe

Young players being released from football clubs is an unfortunate reality of the sport. Some youngsters, despite making it through years of academy and U21 play, don't show enough to the powers at be to warrant professional deals or longer looks.

For years, Jack Sampson was tipped to be the next big thing for Bolton Wanderers and even earned an 18-month contract at the club. He spent loan stints at Southend United and Accrington Stanley but never managed to make a professional appearance for the Trotters. Earlier this year, he spent time on trial with Tranmere before officially being released by the club this summer.

It didn't take Sampson too long to find a new home, signing up with League Two's Morecambe. The 20-year-old signed a two year contract with the Shrimps.

Speaking in his club's official release, Manager Jim Bentley promised to ease his new striker into the side:

"Jack has a good pedigree and has loads of potential.

"He's been at Wigan and Bolton and played in the league on loan at Southend and Accrington and I think he will have a lot to offer.

"He is still only young and we won't put too much pressure on him but I am really pleased that he has joined us. He has played for England and come highly recommended and I am sure he will make progress with us over the next two years."