Hand-picked by famous coach Anthony Ferguson from over 4000 initial candidates across the country, these young footballers received medals and kitbags for their endeavours but more interestingly look set for an exciting trial in renowned London-based clubs like Arsenal and West Ham and the David Beckham Academy.

"Arsenal and West Ham have already agreed in principle to coach some of these youngsters while the David Beckham Academy has also promised to integrate some of these individuals into their training scheme," said community services manager of Canary Wharf Zakir Khan, who is one of the leaders of this initiative.

In his speech, Anwar Chowdhury encouraged the youngsters to grab onto this opportunity with both hands while commending Canary Wharf for this venture.

"This will go a long way to developing the inter-personal relationship between our nations. Canary Wharf is a big name in the British-Bangladeshi community, if not in the whole of London, and you (the youngsters) would do well to avail this opportunity being provided to you."

He also added that this initiative would perhaps unearth hidden talents in the Bangladeshi football arena.

"Maybe we can find the Bangladeshi Beckham from this lot," he quipped with a smile.

The High Commissioner was in high spirits throughout the reception and keeping in tune with the light-hearted theme, he even turned up for a little game with the trainees in his lounge, using flag-posts as the goalposts!

But in more serious matters, Zakir Khan was convinced that this was a win-win situation for the youngsters.

"This is a huge opportunity for them. The chance to go to Europe and train with such top clubs would only add to their football knowledge. They can then bring this back to Bangladesh and perhaps turn professional. And who knows? Maybe one of these thirty-four will be good enough to make the grade at a top club. We might just see our first Bangladeshi professional in England."

Head coach of the project Golam Sarwar Tipu was also honoured for his efforts along with his three assistant coaches.

Chief coordinator Fazlur Rahman Babul also spoke in the event where he lauded the achievement but bemoaned the lack of facilities available to the youngsters in Bangladesh.

Canary Wharf is a major property developer which has turned the deprived area of Tower Hamlets in east London into a modern township. They have been supportive to the Bangladeshi community and have come forward to mastermind this project with support from Emirates and Clifton Restaurant.