our board members

At Who's Next Trials, we’re powered by a passionate and experienced team of football professionals dedicated to unearthing and developing the next generation of gifted and talented players.

Our team combines elite-level playing experience, top-tier scouting knowledge, UEFA-qualified coaching, corporate governance expertise, and a strong commitment to safeguarding and player welfare. Together, we ensure every player is given a fair, inspiring, and professional platform to shine.

Meet the experts behind the trials – the ones who know what it takes to succeed at the highest level and are here to support every young player on their journey.

founder & ceo

james johnson

James Johnson is the visionary founder behind Who’s Next Trials, a football talent discovery programme giving gifted and talented young players the platform to be seen by professional scouts.

With a background as an academy player at West Bromwich Albion, Nottingham Forest, and Birmingham City — and semi-professional experience at clubs like Redditch FC and Halesowen FC — James brings first-hand understanding of the pathway challenges facing aspiring footballers.

His mission is clear, open doors for overlooked talent and ensure every gifted player, regardless of background, has a chance to shine.

Through Who’s Next Trials, James is working with grassroots leagues to uncover the next generation of football stars.

executive board member - HEAD OF TALENT IDENTIFICATION

SIMON johnson

Simon Johnson brings top-flight experience and pro-level insight to Who’s Next Trials. A former Premier League and Football League striker with spells at Leeds United, Sunderland, Hull City, and Darlington, Simon knows exactly what it takes for a grassroots player to make it at the highest level.

Now a scout for Nottingham Forest, Simon personally oversees talent identification for Who’s Next — ensuring only the very best league players get the chance to showcase their ability in front of professional scouts. His sharp eye for potential and network across professional clubs make him a huge asset to every league taking part.

For grassroots leagues, having Simon Johnson on board means your best players will be seen, assessed, and valued by someone who truly knows the pathway to the top.

executive board member - HEAD OF player development

MATT BAILEY

Matt Bailey brings elite-level insight and professionalism to Who’s Next Trials. A former professional footballer with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Burton Albion, Matt has experienced the game at a high level and now channels that experience into developing the next generation.

In addition to his playing career, Matt has coached within the academy systems at both Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Bromwich Albion, working closely with talented young players and helping them progress through elite development pathways.

As a UEFA-qualified coach, Matt leads the delivery of all trial phases — designing and running dynamic, high-quality sessions that challenge and showcase each player’s ability. His focus is on creating a professional, engaging environment where nominated league players can perform at their very best.

For grassroots leagues, having Matt Bailey on the pitch means your players are coached to the same high standards as professional academies.

executive board member - safety & welfare lead

sian jonson

Sian brings a wealth of experience and passion to Who’s Next Trials as Head of Girls' Football Development. A former player for Birmingham City Ladies and Coventry City, Sian also proudly represented England at youth level during her early career. Known for her technical ability and leadership on the pitch, she continues to play competitively for Lye Town Ladies.

Sian plays a pivotal role in expanding Who’s Next Trials to provide opportunities for talented female players in grassroots football. With a deep understanding of the women’s game and a commitment to developing the next generation, she is leading the creation of a dedicated girls’ pathway within the programme.

Her mission is simple: ensure girls receive the same elite-level access, exposure, and scouting opportunities as their male counterparts.

non executive board member - Governance & Risk

MATTHEW morrison

Matthew is an experienced operations leader with a strong track record in strategy, governance, and delivery across complex projects. With a background in driving high performance, he brings a sharp focus on structure, accountability, and sustainable growth.

Passionate about youth development and grassroots sport, Matthew combines his leadership expertise with a deep understanding of risk management to help organisations scale responsibly while staying true to their mission.

As a board advisor, Matthew supports the team in shaping long-term strategy, ensuring robust governance practices, and identifying key risks and opportunities as the programme grows.

executive board member - safety & welfare lead

sarah minks

Sarah is the safeguarding heart of Who’s Next Football Trials. With a background in welfare and extensive FA safeguarding qualifications, she ensures every environment we create is safe, inclusive, and supportive for all players involved.

Sarah holds certifications in Safeguarding Children, Welfare Officer Training, Player Welfare, and Committee Safeguarding, and she leads on all aspects of player protection and well-being. From trial day protocols to post-trial communication, Sarah’s role is to make sure every nominated player — and their family — feels safe, informed, and valued throughout the entire process.