WITH the box-to-box drive of Gerrard, the cleverness of Robben and the exquisite finishing of Henry it is no surprise Clayton's Gary Lynch is setting new footballing records.

The dynamic 22-year-old has finished the season of his life and been given more awards than any trusty mantelpiece could hold.

The midfield maestro, who left England for South Carolina, USA, on a rare footballing scholarship three years ago, finished Player of the Year in the Pelt Belt Conference League, assisted and scored more goals than anyone in the league and country, and was honoured with a place in the Division Two All-America team.

"He's always been gifted," said mum Beverley from the family's Atlas Street home he shared with her, dad Trevor and sister Rebecca, 20.

"Last season he scored 26 goals and made 16, which is a prolific rate for a midfielder. He's an intelligent footballer, he doesn't throw himself around aggressively because he doesn't need to."

Gary, who attended Moorhead High School, left Hyndburn when he was 17.

He signed for Darlington Football Club where he played in the junior team and also passed three 'A' levels. It was there that he was given a scholarship to study combined sports and health studies in America.

"He jumped at the chance," said Beverley, 43.

"He adores life in the States. He has also been given an award for excellence in both sport and study, only the second player in the University of South Carolina's history to receive it.

"After graduation in May he's going to Jacksonville, Florida for a Masters Degree in sports health. His coach says he's been a revelation, inspiring the team to a new kind of football."

Gary captained his USC side to a stunning third league championship in four years. Fifteen wins, four draws and no defeats reflected the sort of spirited leadership Beverley always knew her son was capable of.

"Gary's always been a terrific footballer, but he's very balanced and wants other things too. He knows the importance of doing well academically. He's interested in coaching and when he goes to Florida he'll be the assistant manager of a team there."