Kicking off on 24 October, the documentary series follows the highs and lows of young footballers from the male, female and disability teams at the Southampton FC Academy as they dream of becoming the next Gareth Bale or Leah Williamson.

Narrated by comedian and presenter Alan Carr, whose father was a professional team manager, CBBC has unparalleled access to a diverse range of enthusiastic and skilled players, from the U8s through to the U15s, as they progress through the most dramatic and exciting moments of the season.

Southampton first team and England international players James Ward-Prowse, Theo Walcott, Kyle Walker-Peters and former Southampton FC player Nathan Redmond will make an appearance to take part in Skill Showdown, where they complete a range of fun football challenges with the academy pupils. Special guests Mo Salah, Micah Richards and Southampton FC Academy alumni Alan Shearer also appear in the series.

From tournament finals to "retain or release" contract decisions, the series will capture every moment of euphoria and heartbreak as the young athletes progress while also hearing from the academy coaches and parents who make up their support networks.

Across the series we meet Kiki and Queenie, nine year-old twin girls who play in the year above them and enjoy nothing more than taking on the boys’ teams. The series also follows the story of 15 year-old Harry, who is smaller than his peers but has tremendous strength and speed, as he nervously waits to see if he will be rewarded with a new contract for his impressive technical skills.

Other budding young football stars include para players Flo and Ellie, who have a passion for football and supporting other para players on the pitch, and a football mad family of four boys, with two of the brothers already playing at the academy and the other two knocking at the door.

Southampton FC Academy is one of the UK's top football institutions and has produced footballing superstars such as Gareth Bale, Theo Walcott, James Ward-Prowse, Wayne Bridge, Adam Lallana, Luke Shaw and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Sarah Muller, Head of Commissioning and Acquistions 7+, BBC Children's, says: “We have been granted incredible behind-the-scenes access that is sure to entertain our viewers and their families alike. As we follow the young stars of tomorrow and watch them grow each week, I have no doubt their enthusiasm and passion for the beautiful game will inspire many of those watching.”

England International and Southampton FC Captain, James Ward-Prowse says: “As a graduate of the academy, I know first-hand how the incredible staff and coaches there can nurture talent into some of the best in the world. This fly on the wall CBBC series really shows off our young players’ talent and lively personalities in equal measure - I’m looking forward to tuning in.”