Defender and Midfielder

Isaac Lee

Isaac Lee moved to England from South Korea for his education. He had athletic potential and real quality on the ball, and Premier Football UK arranged trials for him at Stoke City FC and Manchester City FC.

It was the start of a journey that took him through the Stoke City FC academy and non-league football to Shrewsbury Town FC in January 2026.

A Midfielder with Quality on the Ball

In his early years with Premier Football UK, Isaac played in midfield. Even then he could get on the ball, pass it well and play passes between the lines, and he was athletic enough to get up and down the pitch.

He played outstandingly well at a Premier Football UK 10-day event, with games against sides such as Barnsley FC and Lincoln City FC. Events like this give young players the chance to show what they can do against strong opposition.

Trials at Stoke City FC and Manchester City FC

Premier Football UK arranged trials for Isaac at Manchester City FC and Stoke City FC. He signed for Stoke City FC and joined the club’s academy.

While he was at Stoke City FC he went through a big growth spurt, which helped turn the young midfielder into a tall, athletic player. After two years in the academy, Isaac was released. He did not give up.

Non-League Football and Hard Work

Isaac spent time at AFC Fylde and then moved into non-league football with Ramsbottom United FC and Radcliffe FC, with loan spells at Prestwich Heys AFC, Widnes FC and Stafford Rangers FC.

In August 2024 he joined Flint Town United FC in the Welsh Premier League, first on loan and then on a permanent deal in January 2025. He became a key player for Flint Town United FC and was named both the club’s Young Player of the Year and Fans’ Player of the Year.

Signing for Shrewsbury Town FC

In January 2026 Isaac signed for Shrewsbury Town FC, who were playing in League Two. Shrewsbury Town FC beat competition from several EFL clubs to sign him, and he took the number 23 shirt. He made his debut for the club in April 2026 in a 0–0 draw away at Crawley Town FC.

At 6ft 5in, Isaac is a tall, athletic player who can play as a defender or in midfield, with a good turn of pace for a big player. He still has the technical base from his early years in midfield, and the confidence to carry the ball forward.

Shrewsbury Town FC boss Michael Appleton said: “Isaac is very athletic. He’s got good pace and can deal with the ball really well.”

What Young Players Can Learn from Isaac

Being released is not the end. Isaac left Stoke City FC and still reached the Football League.

Non-league can be a pathway. Regular senior football helped him grow as a player.

Good technique lasts. The passing he learned in midfield stayed with him after his growth spurt.

Stay determined. His persistence is what took him to the professional level.

Could You Be Next?

Isaac’s journey from South Korea to trials at Stoke City FC and Manchester City FC, through non-league football and on to Shrewsbury Town FC, shows what persistence can do. If you want to test yourself at UK football trials with Premier Football UK, we can help you take the next step. Register now for a football trial.