FAMILY values not sibling rivalry has realised a notable footballing one-two in the Gray household in York.

Melissa Gray has just been signed up by Leeds United to attend their under-12s girls' centre of excellence academy programme - despite being only nine years of age.

In making a name for herself in the football arena, Melissa, a pupil at Hob Moor Junior School, is following hot on the heels of her older brother, Aaron.

Aaron has been attending York City's centre-of excellence since he was nine and currently plays for the club's under-13 team.

Dad John, of Tudor Road, is rightly proud of his two children and reckons their love of football means for a united front when other brothers and sisters can sometimes be at loggerheads.

"They have always played football together, Melissa has been kicking a football since she was four," he explained.

"Aaron has played a big part in her success. He has taught her a lot of tricks and skills."

Melissa was previously playing for Leeds' under-10s' team when she was aged just eight and if she maintains her rapid progress could one day be playing for United's senior women's team.

The Leeds ladies currently play in the competitive FA Women's Premier League National Division against the likes of Arsenal, Fulham and Everton.

Four of the current Leeds' squad have been called-up by England for the national women's team World Cup final play-off clash with France later this month.

Melissa, who was selected for the Leeds academy after successful trials, will now train twice a week with United, including sessions at the club's Thorp Arch complex, before playing in a game on Saturdays.

She will also continue to play and train with Nestl Rowntree's girls' team.

Representing Hob Moor in a recent schools' football competition, Melissa was named player of the tournament - even though she was playing with and against boys who were up to 18 months older.

Updated: 10:45 Saturday, October 12, 2002