ROYLE Family star Ralf Little looks set to live out his dream of becoming a professional footballer.

The 22-year-old actor revealed last week that he could easily kick acting into touch to pursue a career in soccer.

Now he is about to start training with players at third division Hartlepool United -- but only as part of a TV show.

Club officials had confirmed that Ralf, who grew up in Bury and went to Bolton School, will join the first team later this year.

But TV bosses have sworn them to secrecy about exactly when and why he will be there.

A spokesman said: "Ralf is a huge football fan and plays regularly with the Arsenal ex-pros' team.

"He thinks he's got what it takes to be a professional footballer, but nothing will happen until December because I think he's got rehearsals until then."

Former Bolton School pupil Ralf has starred in TV shows such as Two Pints of Larger and a Packet of Crisps and Paradise Heights.

But in a recent interview he insisted that playing football was his biggest dream. He said: "I'd drop acting in a second to play football."

He was recently invited by Swindon Town's player-coach Neil Ruddock to join the side's pre-season training.

FOOTBALL CRAZY: Ralf Little

Ralf went to medical school in Manchester after his A-levels but decided to give acting a shot after landing a role as Anthony in the Royle Family.

Other highlights of his career include his portrayal of New Order bassist Peter Hook in the film 24 Hour Party People, and a nomination for Most Promising Performer at the 2002 Olivier Awards.