IT’S just another day for teen sensation Luke Matheson.
The 16-year-old Rochdale defender, who made headline news Wednesday night for scoring against Manchester United to take their Carabao Cup tie to penalties, is back at Trinity C of E School in Hulme, Manchester today.
And while he’ll probably be given a hero’s welcome by his fellow pupils for his Old Trafford heroics, his teachers will expect him to knuckle down with some school work.
Because Matheson, who was also Rochdale’s youngest ever debutant before Peter Thomas broke his record, is supposed to be sitting a psychology test on Thursday – just a day after stunning the Red Devils.
The youngster told of his plans when he was interviewed after the game, highlighting the importance of education and revealing he had a day off of school the day of the game of his life because he was picked to play.
“I would have been at school today.” he said.
“I am going in tomorrow to make up for it when we have day off as I have a psychology test. I can’t wait for that. I don’t think I will sleep tonight.
“Rochdale and the school have been so supportive of me. I love learning; it is what I want to do.
“Football is not a guarantee. You never know what will happen. You could be the best player in the world but anything is possible.
“I want to have that back-up plan just in case.”
Matheson, who is clearly a fast-learner on the pitch, is also a high-achiever academically.
The long-locked kid scored impressive GSCE results earlier this year.
He picked up a total of 10 grades, including a grade 8 in GCSE PE, a 9 in history, 8s in chemistry, physics and R.E, 7s in English language, maths and biology, a 6 in Spanish and a 5 in English literature.
That coupled with making his debut for The Dale aged 15 years and 336 days in the Checkatrade Trophy win over Bury, also winning the man-of-the-match award has meant Matheson has enjoyed an incredible year.
“Everything has happened so fast. I am so lucky. You do have to have some sort of skill but it just takes dedication,” he told the Manchester Evening News.
“I have made a lot of sacrifices. I’ve stayed at home instead of going out with friends so I can do some extra training.
“It’s been 100 per cent worth it and Rochdale have been amazing. Without Rochdale, I would be nothing. I’ve got them to thank for everything.
“This next year I’ll just keep playing football and moving in the right direction.
“I still want to get my A levels just in case.
“Yes I have done well for someone so young but you should always have a back up plan.”
