He may still only be 12 years old, but John Kenneth Hilton has already done enough to catch the eye of the world's biggest clubs (watch videos below).
Hilton, who goes by "Xuxuh" (shu-shu) is a speedy American fullback from Long Beach, Calif. who started training with Chivas USA's academy program back in April 2013. It was the same month that he was called in to USA Under-14 national team camp ... as an 11-year-old.
His story is told here by the brother
of his Under-14 coach at Chivas, Brian Kleiban, who has coached Xuxuh for several years.
Apparently the Chivas USA academy's participation in the recent MIC Cup in Spain (April) and the Surf Cup last month got the youngster noticed by some big clubs around Europe.
Manchester City even invited him over and Xuxuh starred in an international tournament for the Citizens, earning MVP honors. The player has since returned to Chivas USA's Under-14 Youth Development Team coached by Kleiban.
"He was invited for this tournament, but after his showing I'm sure [Manchester City] would like him to return in the future," Chivas USA director of soccer Sacha van der Most wrote to MLSsoccer.com via email. "We are following up with [Manchester City], as our sporting president, Dennis te Kloese, has a good relationship with City. We want to make sure Manchester City will respect our club, as we hope to continue the player in his home environment."
A memorable name that may very well be worth remembering. Check out Xuxuh's in-depth profile here.
