PELE, George Best and Rodney Marsh did it at the end of their careers but for teenage sensation Becky Angus, the razzmatazz of the US will mark the start of her football career.

The 17-year-old from Redcar, east Cleveland, is already dreaming of stepping out in front of 90,000 fans as part of America's Women's Soccer Cup final after being awarded a four-year scholarship.

Becky, who plays for Marton Ladies team in Redcar, will make her debut for the Tennessee Eagles, a team that represents Carson-Newman College in Jefferson City, Tennessee, on August 30.

The teenager will fly to the US in a fortnight before starting her PE degree course.

Becky, of Pennine Crescent, Redcar, said: "This is what I've always wanted to do. I didn't expect the chance to come so early, but I can't say no. It's the chance of a lifetime.

"I've always been a bit of a traveller but I'll miss my family.

"Women's football is really big over there, but I'd also love to come back and play for England."

She was given the chance to pursue her dream with £1,000 from the West Redcar Single Regeneration Budget's Community Chest, which is funding her flights and sports equipment.

Centre forward Becky is already a respected player on Teesside, with 22 goals for Marton Ladies last season.

She was offered the chance to play in the US when a collegiate scout spotted her skills during a recent recruiting trip in the North-East.

Marton Ladies team manager Ian Simpson said: "I'm gutted because I'm losing her, but you can't stand in the way of progress.

"It's certainly a challenge for the kid but good luck to her.

"She's a talented young lady and she's got the guts to do it."