Young footballers got more than they bargained for with a surprise visit from top-level Argentinian professional players at a soccer session in Sharrow.

Youngsters on the Sheffield United Kickz project were met by players from Estudiantes de la Plata, who were in the city to take on the Blades at Bramall Lane.

After a brief introduction to the Kickz project, which offers 12-19 year olds in Sharrow the chance to get involved in sports, volunteer and gain qualifications, the players did not just watch on from the touchlines, but asked if they could join in too.

More than 30 youngsters at the session were treated to a masterclass by the Estudiantes star players Iberbia, Cardozo, Morales, Carrasco, Azqui and Fernandez, who showed off their skills and tricks, and it was smiles all round when the Kickz players took them on.

Raul Iberbia, one the players visiting the project said, "It was a beautiful experience to join in the training session with the kids. We have a lovely memory to take back with us.

"It is all about football and it gives us a common language. We have had a great time."

They were watched by other project participants including girls from the street dance crew.

Keith Ward, the United Initiative's Kickz Coordinator said: "I can't believe it. The kids were buzzing before the players arrived but they were absolutely knocked out when the players wanted to join in with them.

"They have given the youngsters a memory of a lifetime. Many thanks to Estudiantes for coming down."

Estudiantes are one of the world's top club teams and the visit to the local project at Mount Pleasant was part of the itinerary for the Argentinian guests during their stay in Sheffield.