GIANT Northern Irish centre half David Ogilby today starts a two-week trial with Wrexham, after being given permission from his club Institute to travel to North Wales.

The U23 and 'B' international, he played against both Belgium and the Republic of Ireland last season, is vice-captain of the Drumhoe-based club, which is just across the River Foyle from Derry.

Institute operate in the Irish League and are one of 12-clubs invited by the Irish FA to form their new Premier division for next season.

David is still under contract with the 'Stute' for another season, but wants to make a good impression and is keen on going full time.

"To be honest this really has come out of the blue," Ogilby told his local newspaper.

"I was only told about it at training and I'm buzzing with the news, it's a great opportunity for me and one, which I'm hopefully going to take."

Earlier this season he missed out on the chance to sign for his home-town club Derry City, after both 'Stute and the Brandywell outfit couldn't agree on a fee.

However the Institute man feels another chance at full-time football is what he wants.

"Although Wrexham just got relegated last season they are a big club and the standard in the Blue Square Premier Division is very good," he said.

"Full time football is certainly something which interest's me, but I'm not thinking too far ahead.

"I spoke to Martin Foyle, Wrexham's first team coach, and he has told me that they are looking to possibly sign two centre-half's, so I'm going over to give it my best shot.

"He also told me that they have games lined up behind closed doors and another against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

"If I'm involved in any of those games then I know that I have to put in good performances, because I'll be in the shop window and you never know what might happen."

David (right) in action against Glentoran

David was born in Derry and grew up in the nearby village of Strathfoyle. It was in a local charity youth cup that he was first spotted, playing for Strathfoyle Youth Club, as he guided them to victory in a Limavady Summer Cup and he was subsequently signed by one of Derry's top youth football clubs, Tristar.

Coach Jon Clifford was so impressed by the youngster, he even offered to pay for Ogilby's taxis to and from training. David was considered a stalwart in the Tristar defence and helped guide them to two Derry and District League Titles. After two successful years, he signed for Lisahally and it was then that he caught the eye of renowned coach Charlie Burns.

After playing only two games for Lisahally, Burns sent him on trial to Institute FC.

Current manager, Liam Beckett singled out Ogilby and his fellow defender, Mark Scoltock as the best defenders in the Irish Football Association and the Institute fans have labelled Ogilby as their "most committed player".

On January 30, 2008, Derry City expressed keen interest in the player, with hope of landing the promising defender before the end of the Transfer Window. Beckett, while allowing Ogilby to discuss terms with City boss Stephen Kenny, was hesitant and wished to see the player remain at the Riverside.

The transfer, however, did not go through in time, as negotiations broke down before the window closed. Sources in the media reported that the breakdown was largely due to the reluctance of the Institute board to let the player go.