A YOUNG Largs footballer is set to go global - after being given the chance to star in a worldwide advertising campaign for a leading sports brand.

Owen McGinty is just back from Madrid after firing in shots against one of the best goalkeepers in the world.

Owen, who has featured for Rangers and Ayr United youth teams, was captured on camera testing out Atletico Madrid keeper Jan Oblak for a Puma advertising campaign which launches in mid-January.

The rising star, who lives in Linn Avenue, first played for Largs Colts and Largs Spartans boys clubs and once netteed an incredible 135 goals in a single season.

He was snapped up by Rangers FC, where he featured for three successful seasons, before joining Ayr United.

He is currently without a club and hopes to shoot himself back into the spotlight through the Puma commercial.

He said: "I would love the opportunity to join an English Premiership side at under 23 level. I have heard that Bournemouth, Swansea and Sunderland are interested but I have to wait until the January transfer window kicks in so I can get international clearance for a potential move.

"Visiting Madrid gave me a taste for life on the continent and I would love a move there too."

The 18-year-old attacker was given the chance to star in the commercial by former Rangers goalkeeper Lee Robinson.

He said: "It was an exciting trip and it was a great experience firing in some shots against a keeper who is considered to be the best in the world."

Lately, Owen has been training with Largs Thistle U19s and credited his dad Rory, and coaches Drummond Bone and Alan Bainbridge for helping him get on in the game.

He said: "I model my game on Eden Hazard and I am a great admirer of Lionel Messi too."

And during Owen's footballing journey so far he has worked with Largs Thistle's legendary Scottish Cup winning manager of 1994, John Crawford.

Owen said: "John was my coach at Ayr United and he has played a big part in encouraging me. He is steeped in football and is so interesting to talk to and learn from."

John told the News he believes Owen can reach the very top of the game.

He said: "He played with Ayr United Football Academy last season appearing for both the Under 18s and reserves.

"He is a very talented player with great feet, turn and change of pace and an ability to go past defenders for fun. He can score goals and also contribute with assists, he has it all really.

"It is always great to see a good local talent demonstrate such natural ability.

"You always feel when Owen receives the ball he is going to make something happen. There is no limit to what he can achieve if he sets his mind to it."