Lloyd is a star off the pitch as well (From Barry And District News)

Lloyd is a star off the pitch as well

MOST people aren't blessed with both brains and brawn.

But talented footballer and academic prodigy Lloyd Evans is the exception to the rule.

For as well as studying for A Levels in maths and biology after bagging ten A*s and three As in his GCSEs, the Ysgol Gyfun Bro Morgannwg pupils is on the books of Cardiff City Football Club.

Lloyd's dream is to follow in the golden boot-steps of his hero Gary Lineker.

But if a career on the football pitch is out of his reach, with his string of outstanding qualifications under his belt, Lloyd can pick and choose from an array of professions.

"Football is most important to me," said Lloyd, who lives in Llantwit Major with his mum, dad and seven-year-old sister. "But if that doesn't work out, I'll go to university and hopefully become a doctor or a banker."

Lloyd recognises the importance of his education, studying for A Levels in maths and biology one and a half days a week at school. His training at Ninian Park takes up the rest of his time.

"Football should be a full time job," said Lloyd. "But I stayed on at school after getting my GCSE results."

Lloyd would have studied with the rest of his teammates at college in Cardiff, but after negotiations between his teachers, parents, and coaches from the club, it was decided furthering his education at school would be in Lloyd's best interests.

Lloyd was a nine-year-old pupil at primary school in Cowbridge when he was spotted by a talent scout.