Darlington chairman George Reynolds is offering a possible lifeline to a young footballer who was kicked out of the game for drug abuse.

The Quakers supremo plans to give a second chance to disgraced 18-year-old Anthony Parry.

Parry, who was signed by England coach Kevin Keegan as a young trainee, was sacked by Newcastle United last year following a random drugs test.

Traces of morphine were found in his blood and his world fell apart when his footballing future was shattered.

The youngster, who lives in Murton, County Durham, has battled to beat his heroin addiction ever since, and this week made a desperate plea to restart his career.

Speaking on Paul Gough's Century Radio show yesterday morning, Darlington chairman George Reynolds said he believes Parry should be given a second chance. The former safe-cracker, who is famous for his misspent youth, is now planning to talk to manager Gary Bennett with a view to possibly giving Parry a trial.

"I think it's sad for lads like him and the answer is to turn them around by sticking with them and supporting them," he said.

"I am very against drugs, but he should be given a second chance and not put on the scrap heap.

"I'll have a word with the manager to see if he could fit him in. It would be nice to give the kid a chance if he has the skills on the pitch.

"If you can turn any kid around from drugs or drink, it's a great achievement."

Parry was not available for comment last night but his mother, Marion, said he knew about Reynolds' offer and that he was delighted he was being offered a possible second chance.

When Parry failed the drugs test, he was banned from playing competitive soccer for life by the Football Association.

It is understood that if Parry takes up any offer from Darlington, he would first have to prove to the FA that he is clean of drugs and take a medical.

He would then have to lodge an official appeal against his life ban, which would be heard by an FA disciplinary panel