Alex Scott’s sharp rise from non-league football in Guernsey to the England squad

Alex Scott explained his sharp rise from non-league football in Guernsey six years ago, to being named in his first-ever England squad this week.

Alex Scott’s step sister Maya Le Tissier was a big part of the Lionesses squad that won the Euros in the summer and is an ever-present at centre-half for Manchester United in the Women’s Super League.

Before they both were playing at the top level of men’s and women’s football, however, they both had to make sacrifices.

“Growing up we would fly over every weekend together,” he said. “She’d have her games for Hampshire and I’d be playing for Southampton as a kid.

“Every weekend one of our parents and us were flying over. It took a lot, especially for our parents, the amount of money they were paying and the amount of dedication they put in for us to dream to be footballers, it’s a credit to them.

“We’re just happy now we’re both playing at the top level. She’s flying for Man United and for the Lionesses as well, I couldn’t be prouder of her as well.”

However, at 12 years old Scott was released from Southampton’s academy and began to start playing local football in Guernsey.

“Six years ago I was playing non-league football for Guernsey FC,” Scott explained. “I wasn’t even sure I was going to make it as a football player. 

“So to now be in the England senior team, it’s a dream come true. I’m just grateful for all the coaches, my family, and everyone who’s helped me get to this point today.”

Even after making it to the Premier League and signing for Bournemouth in 2023 the midfielder struggled with injuries including an MCL injury and a meniscus injury that had him out for long spells over the past two years.

“I had a great time at Bristol City where I suffered no injuries whatsoever,” he said. “I played most of the games there. 

“Then you finally get your dream move to the Premier League and as soon as you go in, you’re out for two, three months. That was tough to take. 

“Since then, it’s been injury after injury. I had one bad knee injury last year and things are starting to look on the up but then I go and break my jaw in the last two games of the season. It’s been tough.

“I’ve had great people around me, obviously my family being number one and all the staff at Bournemouth, my friends as well, just getting around me and making sure I’m OK at all times and pushing me, to be honest. 

“The club were brilliant. Anyone there I could speak to if I was feeling down or not feeling great at all.”