A KNUTSFORD footballer has excelled in his A levels achieving three A*s in his exams and securing a place to study medicine.

18-year-old Will Abbotts, who used to play for Bolton Wanderers development squad, gained outstanding exam results in chemistry, biology and maths from The Manchester Grammar School and has now taken a place at Cardiff University starting in September.

On top of his studies, Will also plays football for Wales under 19s and has competed in the European Championships and other competitions in Russia, Portugal and Slovenia.

Will said: “My love of sports means I’ve always had an interest in medicine and the human body. I settled on Cardiff as some of my family are Welsh and it’s a great city.

“The school has massively helped and allowed me to take time off for competitions; their flexibility in fitting around my football and offering me extra sessions has undoubtedly helped me secure these results.”

Will is among 33 boys who achieved three or more A* grades at the school.

Dr Martin Boulton, The Manchester Grammar School high master, said: “I am so proud and delighted at the achievements of our boys, and that they have secured places at some of the top universities worldwide.

“Truly, their hard work has been rewarded. I would like to congratulate them, and wish them every success on the next exciting stage in their academic career.”