My interview with former Spurs academy player and Northern Ireland u21 international Chris Herron:

In the latest of my series of interviews with former Spurs academy players, I had the great pleasure of interviewing fullback Chris Herron. A familiar name amongst youth watches of the late 1990’s and early 2000’s, Herron was of the same age group as players such as Dean Marney, Stephen Kelly and Robert Burch. Herron was at Spurs from the age 8 right through until he was 18. Now retired and after spells at the likes of QPR, Chesham and Slough. Chris spoke to me about his memories of his time at Spurs and his subsequent career in the game, one which was sadly hampered by a gruesome leg injury.

What are your earliest memories of your time at Spurs and how did you come about joining the club?

Chris: Earliest memory was being scouted by Dick Moss aged 8/9 playing for Enfield eagles and attending a trial game on Northumberland Park Astro, behind White Hart Lane stadium in midweek and being really nervous being a Spurs fan.

What was your time at Spurs like on the whole?

Chris: Mixed emotions really as I had so many ups and downs- playing against an England select 11 at Spurs lodge when I was 15 or so and really standing out, which got me promoted to the u17’s for a game or two whilst I was still at school. I came on against Millwall and remember just being really scared as it felt like I was playing against men! I had so many great memories and on the whole they were positive but I did feel at times under certain coaches my natural game game was being stifled somewhat. I came to the club as an attacking left winger and converted to a left back by the time I signed YTS forms.

Who was your footballing inspiration/hero?

Chris: I never really had an out and out hero growing up but as a winger I loved watching players like Steve McManaman, John Barnes, Chris Waddle & Gazza.

Who were your greatest influences at the club?

Chris: My Greatest influence at the club was probably Robbie Stepney during my time there. He was so passionate about football, believed in me and was always offering advice etc, his training sessions were always high intensity and fun, he was just such a great man I admired him a lot.

Were there any other players at the club or outside who you’d model your game around?

Chris: As a winger obviously I loved David Ginola but when I converted to a left back around 14/15 I guess I admired Ashley Cole…just a shame he was a gooner at the time!

What was the toughest thing about being an academy footballer?

Chris: Pre season!!! They ran us for fun. But for me I guess the toughest thing for me was mental toughness, you are constantly worrying about performances, getting another contract, riding the wave when I was flavour of the month, I played most of the first year in the academy for the Under 19’s after having a strong pre season and playing well at the milk cup (before breaking my nose out there) But i I found it hard making that step up at times and playing in the older age group. Pat Holland was coach at the time and he did improve me defensively but that was never my strong point, as I said earlier my game was stifled as I wanted to be an attacking full back/wing back but I couldn’t go past the halfway in his system of play! He was a great coach don’t get me wrong but I couldn’t play what I felt was my natural game – attacking, running with the ball etc.

How did your time as a youth player at Spurs prepare you for your later career?

Chris: Mainly It taught me a lot about discipline and dedication and what was needed for the game. Ultimately It got me a move to QPR after Spurs where I spent a season and a half there. Gary Waddock was my coach and really believed in me. I honestly felt if I started my career there I would have been playing at a higher level than where I ended up playing. They were struggling financially at the time though. It was a case of right club wrong time.

Could you talk me through some of your favourite memories from your time as a youth player at Tottenham Hotspur?

Chris: I had a lot of favourite moments. Weirdly most of those memories were from the changing room. We had a lot of laughs, there were some great characters in the changing room, I never laughed so much. That’s the only thing I miss now I’ve stopped playing footie, is the dressing room banter. On the pitch I don’t remember much before I went full time as I was there from such a young age but the highlights were playing in the Milk Cup, playing at White Hart lane in the FA youth cup and a few other big stadiums around the country, getting called up to the Northern Ireland U17’s was a proud moment for me and my family and lastly playing a few games in the reserves under Chris Hughton before signing for QPR.

Could you talk me through your career after you left Spurs?

Chris: After Spurs I signed for QPR after impressing on trial. Gary Waddock was such a great coach and really believed in me. His style of play suited mine and I scored quite a few goals from left back as he wanted me to get up and down the pitch. Halfway through my contract Ian Holloway asked to see me in his office, all of the coaching staff were in there and he presented me with a letter. It was from the Irish FA to say I’d been called up to the Under 21 squad. He gave a great speech, told me to keep improving, keep going, take my chances in the reserves etc. Everybody shook my hand and I walked out of the room on such a high. I played several times for NI U17s and 19s but this felt like a major step up playing in the Euro qualifiers. I think I got three or four caps in total playing against some household names still playing the game today. Towards the last few months of that season I was still no nearer to the first team at QPR so wasn’t surprised when my contract wasn’t renewed. By this time having a second rejection really did knock my confidence but I was always realistic and had my head screwed on so I started to think about life outside of the full time game. I did my coaching badges and started working for myself coaching in schools around Enfield and Barnet. This progressed to becoming football development officer for Barnet Council which was a job I really enjoyed.

By then I’d signed for Chesham United who were in the southern Premier league at the time I believe- I was around 19/20 and flying there playing down the left hand side with some other really talented players who never quite made it at other premier league clubs. We had a great side under Steve Bateman and I was enjoying football again. AFC Wimbledon came in for me which would have been a great step up again but i turned them down as the travelling would have just been too much 3/4 times a week on top of a full time job (looking back it’s a decision I regret but it just wasn’t right at the time). Not long after we were playing an FA cup game at Chesham against Dunstable I think it was- I went in for a 50/50 challenge – I got there first and tried to dink it over the other guys foot- he came in high- it was a really bad challenge, by the time I’d hit the ground after somersaulting in the air I knew I’d broken my leg, the pain wasn’t that bad at the time but by the time I got to Stoke Mandeville hospital in Aylesbury, I was in agony. The length of time waiting and lack of treatment I received in the first 12 hours caused me to get compartment syndrome- without going into too much detail (its gory- google it!) after coming out of surgery they told me I was an hour away from the leg being amputated, I knew it wasn’t good at this point I did think I would never play football again.

I had several more surgeries, metal rods inserted, pinned for the break etc (which still causes disruption going through metal detectors at airports! Two skin graft operations from the compartment syndrome. In total I spent just over three weeks in hospital- I couldn’t walk for three months as I had severe nerve damage in my foot from he injury/operations, I couldn’t work for four/five months. It was tough. Thankfully a year to the day after I broke my leg I was back playing for Chesham again but never really felt like the same player again after that. I certainly wasn’t as consistent. When Steve left Chesham I followed him to Hemel Hempstead along with several others and stayed there for two/three seasons again showing glimpses of my old self.

Steve then left for Slough Town and took me with him….again with several others! I was 28/29 at this point and work commitments were making it more and more hard to commit to football, travelling up and down the country three times a week getting home late etc and I had really started to fall out of love with it all. I’d started picking up more and more injuries too and by the end of my time at Slough I knew it was time to call it a day I just didn’t have the heart for it anymore. Looking back I am quite happy with the career I had although I should have played at a higher level for longer than I did- I played for Spurs and QPR, got caps at u17,19 & 21 level with Northern Ireland, travelled all around Europe, had a good semi pro career at some big non league clubs and stayed in and around football through coaching in youth/sport development manager roles until a couple of years ago. I now work for worldskills UK as an education and competition skills manager. Occasionally I do some 1-2-1 football coaching with friends children but that’s about it now.

What was the pinnacle of your footballing career?

Chris: The Pinnacle – I would probably say getting my first U21 cap for Northern Ireland and playing in the European championships against Spain.

Who was the greatest player that you had the pleasure of sharing a pitch with?

Chris: There were so many, at Spurs/QPR at youth/reserve level I’d played against the likes of Jermaine Defoe, David Bentley, Darren Bent, Jermaine Pennant, joe Cole, Wayne Routledge (who broke my nose a second time!). With Northern Ireland I played with Steven Davis (Southampton captain) and behind Paddy McCourt who could honestly have been a bigger star than he was (he did feature for Celtic a few times)- I shared the pitch with Fernando Torres, Mikel Arteta and a few others I forget but if I had to name the greatest: it’s gotta be Dennis Bergkamp!

What would your advice be to the current Spurs academy players, as they look to make their way up the footballing pyramid?

Chris: My advice would be simple. Focus entirely on football if that truly is your dream. It’s a short career so work hard, have self belief and confidence and a single determination and drive to succeed. You’ve basically got to Live sleep and breath football if you have any chance of making it in the game. Also focus in class on your college day- you never know how important that my be if you don’t quite make it.

Lastly…..take up golf!

Spurs under 23’s 4-2 Derby County: (match report)

Our under 23’s took a significant step in securing their division one status for next season with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Derby County at Hotspur Way on Saturday afternoon. It was a thrilling end to end game with chances a plenty at both ends, but it was Burnett’s resilient side who deserved all three points. After an excellent start which saw Spurs get two early goals, Burnett’s side suffered a lack of concentration and soon afterwards they allowed Derby to pull a goal back. The rams drew level moments later making it all to play for once again. This is when the technically better Spurs side took their chance, knowing that they needed all three points, and a thunderbolt by Anthony Georgiou went along way to securing that on the half hour mark. An equally as thrilling and captivating second half ensued, but it was the battle like nature of Spurs who were led by players such as Pritchard and Maghoma (captain) that saw out the game. A late penalty kick for Kazaiah Sterling managing to secure all three points for Spurs in what was a precious victory for Burnett’s men. That win sees Spurs move above Derby and into ninth place in the table, but most importantly of all it puts Spurs four points clear of the relegation zone. Meaning that a win against Chelsea in our next PL2 fixture would ensure our division 1 status. For the second consecutive game Spurs defender TJ Eyoma would come up against his older brother Aaron who is on trial with Derby from Arsenal who we faced last time round. Soon after walking on to the pitch both sets of players posed for a team photograph in front of a kick it out flag. Burnett’s side got the game underway at a blustery Hotspur Way for the lunchtime PL2 fixture.

After a fast paced start to proceedings there was one player who would be heavily involved in the opening stages of the game. Moments after almost getting Spurs into trouble with a misplaced pass across the Spurs defence, Joe Pritchard was almost the hero at the other end with a sublime solo effort. It was so nearly a sumptuous goal for the midfielder, who with shades of Gazza 96 saw him knock the ball over the head of Aaron Eyoma before connecting with a low volley on the edge of the Derby penalty area. His well executed effort came bouncing off the bottom of the post. The fast pace of the game continued to develop, some impressive aerial goalkeeping from Alfie Whiteman in the Spurs goal caught the eye. But it was the lilywhites who were creating the more potent chances in front of goal, and with just nine minutes on the clock it was Burnett’s side who took the lead, albeit with a little help from the Derby goalkeeper. The goal came via a huge slice of luck for Burnett’s side, Lee Buchanan’s seemingly routine back pass to the rams goalkeeper Barnes caught him by surprise. Sterling’s aggressive pressing influenced Barnes, who completely missed the ball as it rolled towards the goal line. The Derby goalkeeper tried frantically to get to the ball but just as it was about to squirm over the line he took a wild swing in an attempt to clear the ball, but it ended up flying right into to the back of the Spurs net, 1-0. Spurs capitalised on the rams absolute howler of an own goal and managed to double their lead a mere three minutes afterwards. A fast attacking foray from the lively Keanan Bennetts down the left flank saw the wide man slip Pritchard in down the left side of the penalty area. Still with all to do, Pritchard managed to do extremely well to clip the ball inside the far corner of Barnes’ goal from such an acute angle, 2-0. The Spurs players rushed over to congratulate the attacking midfielder.

A far too common theme in Spurs’ season had been conceding straight after taking the lead, and unfortunately that trend continued when the rams pulled a goal back through Cameron Cresswell less than four minutes after Pritchard’s goal. It was a sloppy goal to concede from Burnett’s side who allowed captain Alex Babos to drive the ball into the Spurs box. It was like pinball inside the area, Maghoma went to clear but ended up steering the ball into the feet of Cresswell who calmly slotted the ball past Whiteman from close range. Spurs were now the team who found themselves under pressure. Things then got even worse for Spurs when Cresswell found the net for the second time in the space of two minutes. Spurs had been caught napping at the back, the tricky Aaron Eyoma managing to jink forward before threading a nice through ball to Cresswell down the right side of the penalty area. The Derby striker clinically drove the ball home to make it 2-2. It was hard to believe that Spurs had been leading 2-0 just a couple of minutes before hands, in total control of the game. Now they appeared to be like a totally different side who were simply unable to contain the rams. More chances came Derby’s way, left back Louie Sibley was allowed to advance forward unchallenged down the left hand side. Before squaring the ball for Jason Knight inside the box, the Irishman’s first time effort was blocked on the line by Anthony Georgiou. Despite allowing Derby to have a way back into the game, Spurs seemed to have regained their composure on the ball and were looking to play fluid attacking football once more. A further slice of luck came Spurs’ way when they regained the lead through Anthony Georgiou’s 25 yard thunderbolt shortly after the half hour mark.

After picking up Pritchard’s pass Georgiou decided to try his luck from range and unleashed a fizzing effort at Barnes’ goal. The ball took a significant deflection off a Derby player before flying into the bottom right hand corner of the goal, it was a howitzer nonetheless, 3-2. Sterling had a penalty claim waived away soon afterwards as Spurs looked to reestablish their authority on the game. Yet danger was never far away and the Spurs players would have been incredibly relieved that referee Sam Purkiss didn’t spot George Marsh’s blatant handball after trying but eventually failing to head clear Max Birds corner kick. Wassall’s side managed to cause the Spurs defence some problems in the final stages of the half. Anthony Georgiou was forced into making a terrific interception on the edge of the Tottenham box. Whilst soon afterwards Alfie Whiteman was called into action. It was a long ball upfield which caused problems for Spurs, Tanganga ended up slipping in the area after attempting to clear. The ball came the way of Knight whose instinctive outside of the boot effort was stopped spectacularly by Whiteman from close range, with an important diving save to tip it wide of the mark. The visitors got the second half back underway and it started pretty evenly. And it was the visitors who would have the first meaningful chance of the half, the dangerous Eyoma was once again allowed to surge down the right hand channel. Eyoma travelled towards the byline before whipping a dangerous ball across the face of Whiteman’s goal, but somehow Babos couldn’t connect with it at the far post. Once again Spurs were let off the hook.

Derby had started the half well and were keeping up their high tempo, the decisive Japhet Tanganga made an important sliding challenge to prevent an opening for Cresswell a couple of minutes later. It was evident that the rams were really going for the game and they didn’t care about leaving gaps at the back in order to do so. Bird fired an effort well wide as Burnett’s side struggled to get a foothold on the game. Keanan Bennetts saw his free kick go straight down the throat of Barnes, I was growing anxious at the amount of times Derby were managing to break past our defence. The bombardment of Whiteman’s goal continued, Babos volleyed the ball across goal at the back post. Pritchard had blocked the same man’s effort a couple of moments later, after Maghoma had conceded a free kick on the edge of the box. Whiteman was then forced in to saving Jason Knight’s well struck volley. After a spell of great pressure, Burnett’s side managed to find it in them to respond, and respond they did! Spurs had come a fraction away from extending their lead courtesy of a terrific long range effort from the tireless Shilow Tracey. Tracey had the audacity to cut in on to his right foot from over 25 yards out from goal. Before unleashing a powerful curler of an effort which had totally deceived Barnes, as it dipped on to the inside of his near post before bouncing wide. so, so close! Tracey came desperately close to opening his account once more, after he tested Barnes for the second time in under two minutes.

After receiving the ball on the right wing Tracey decided to sprint forward, managing to skin his man before powering an effort at the Derby goal which managed to squirm under Barnes. Before being cleared on the line by the Derby goalkeeper who somehow managed to sprint back. Aaron Eyoma was causing more problems inside the Spurs half, after squaring agonisingly across the face of the goal. And the Derby trialist was gifted a chance a couple of moments later, when Tanganga sloppily gave the ball straight to the winger. Eyoma powered forward before firing a low deflected effort inches wide of the Spurs goal. Reo Griffiths came on in place of Bennetts as Burnett looked to add fresh legs to his side as a frantic final ten minutes ensued. Chances came and went at both ends, Bird sent his header straight in to the arms of Whiteman. Spurs made another replacement when they brought key man Joe Pritchard off in place of Duncan, Spurs coach Paul Bracewell tapped the influential Spurs man on the shoulder as he made his way across to the bench. The temporary assistant (I think?) John McDermott cried to Shilow ”we need a fourth goal from you” as Spurs fought desperately hard to see out the remainder of the game. It was evident that Burnett had ordered his side to close down the rams who were not giving up of a late goal but it just wasn’t in Spurs’ attacking style to play that way. Whiteman produced another decent save after he clutched substitute Lewis Walkers volley, after connecting sweetly with Birds cross. Then there was a heart in mouth moment for Burnett’s side after a late corner kick found its way to Knight at the far post. The Irishman’s resulting volley flew narrowly wide much to the relief of the Spurs defence.

There was to be a further late twist in the game when Spurs were awarded a penalty in the third minute of additional time. After latching on to George Marsh’s hopeful long ball inside the penalty area, Kazaiah Sterling was taken clean out by Lee Buchanan, who got his sliding challenge all wrong. Sterling kept his composure as he made his way to the spot, giving Barnes the eyes before cooly slotting the other way, 4-2. There was a bit of an altercation on the final whistle between Christian Maghoma and Louie Sibley after the latter had said something. Maghoma told him to walk away, but it wasn’t to matter as it was all smiles again soon afterwards. A precious, precious victory for Wayne Burnett’s side who are now all but safe from the threat of relegation with just two leagues games to go. It was an enthralling game to watch, and one in which demonstrated great resilience and fight from the Spurs players. Elsewhere our under 18’s defeated Fulham 2-1 at Motspur Park on Saturday morning with first goals of the season for Armando Shashoua and Troy Parrott. Up next for Burnett’s side is a visit to Stamford Bridge, to face Chelsea next Friday. COYS

Player reviews: – Alfie Whiteman: Enjoyed a solid game in the Spurs goal, looked assured throughout and had a fine all round game. Made a couple of really important saves, including a stunning one on the stroke of half time. Impressive stuff!
– TJ Eyoma: Not his finest performance in a Spurs shirt, Eyoma got done quite a lot down the left wing and his lack of pace didn’t help matters. I always feel as if he is much better suited to playing at centre half.
– Anthony Georgiou: Really impressive performance from the attacking full back who managed to combine decisive defending with well timed attacking runs down the left hand side. Made some really crucial blocks and interceptions. And not forgetting his excellent 25 yard screamer in the first half, that was his first goal of the campaign.
– George Marsh: Very effective in the centre of the park, bossed the midfield from start to finish and kept things moving. Made some really strong and important challenges. However, I can’t help but notice his unnecessary Bartonesque antics which he produces on a game to game basis, catching players in the face deliberately. Maybe it’s something that the Spurs coaches like, but I don’t see the necessity in winding players up. Great performance nonetheless!
– Christian Maghoma: A force to be reckoned with in the air, the skipper formed a typically solid partnership alongside Tanganga at centre half. He was assured and strong in every aspect of his game, his leadership and advice to team mates proved effective throughout. I greatly admire his attitude and great work ethic. Really helped us see out the game.
– Japhet Tanganga: Impressive performance, was in the right place at the right time and in doing so he managed to make some really important challenges. Like Maghoma he was excellent in the air.
– Shilow Tracey: After a fairly quiet first half, Tracey really came to life in the second half. Impacting the game profoundly with his numerous lung bursting runs down the right. He was direct and made things happen and on another day could easily have bagged a brace. Tracey is a player who has been absolutely exceptional in the second half of this season.
– Tashan Oakley-Boothe: A decent but seemingly ineffective performance in the centre of the park. Despite his obvious talents I can never work out what kind of player Oakley-Boothe is. He isn’t a steely ball winner and despite his great eye for a pass he rarely makes any ambitious passes. He was decent and tidy but nothing more. Possibly played to deep?
– Kazaiah Sterling: Aggressive and high pressing, Sterling lead the line well for Spurs. Despite his lack of chances, Sterling held up the ball well and did a good job in influencing play. Took his penalty really well.
– Joe Pritchard: My motm, see below.
– Keanan Bennetts: Enjoyed a lively game down the left, allowed Georgiou to overlap on occasions. Was skilful on the ball and impacted the game in the first half laying off a nice assist for Pritchard.
– Jade Brown: Good half an hour cameo, stayed deep and looked solid.
– Reo Griffiths: promising 15 minute cameo, got stuck in and went on some fruitful runs. Hopefully he’ll start the Chelsea game.
– Dylan Duncan: N/A

My man of the match: Joe Pritchard. It was a colossal match winning performance from the 21 year old attacking midfielder, Pritchard had an immense influence on proceedings. He provided nonstop energy, his movement across the pitch and particularly in and around the six yard box was top class. Scored an excellently taken goal in the first half and also managed to pick out Georgiou for our third. But it was the midfielders terrific work rate and eagerness to get stuck in and defend deep, but also make pitch perfect runs in and around the six yard box which won us the game. I am a big, big fan of Pritchard and he is a player who I think has been absolutely sensational all season. His versatility has proved invaluable for Burnett.

Spurs: Whiteman, Eyoma, Georgiou (Brown 62), Marsh, C Maghoma (c), Tanganga, Tracey, Oakley-Boothe, Sterling, Pritchard (Duncan 84), Bennetts (Griffiths 77). Substitutes (not used): Austin, Roles.

Derby County: Barnes, Bateman, Sibley, Bird, Wassall, Buchanan, Eyoma (Mitchell-Lawson 84), Babos (c), Cresswell, Wilson (Walker 72), Knight.
Substitutes (not used): Yates, Karic, Taylor.

Goals: Spurs – Buchanan (OG) 9, Pritchard 11, Georgiou 31, Sterling 90+3 (pen); Derby – Cresswell 16, 18.

Yellow cards: Spurs – Marsh 63, Tracey 69; Derby – Eyoma 62.

Referee: Sam Purkiss.

U23’s 2017/18 statistics: Top scorers: Sterling-11
Loft-1
Duncan-2
Edwards-4
Tanganga-1
Pritchard-4
S.Shashoua-5
Bennetts-5
Tracey-3
Harrison-4
C.Maghoma-2
Roles-4
Walkes-1
Eyoma-1
Skipp-1
Georgiou-1

Assists: Skipp-1
Miller-1
Sterling-2
Pritchard-7
Edwards-3
Tracey-7
Eyoma-1
S.Shashoua-1
Brown-1
Sterling-4
Bennetts-6
Marsh-1
Harrison-1
Roles-1
Tanganga-1

Spurs under 18’s versus Fulham: (match preview)

After a successful trip to Italy to compete in the annual Torneo Maggioni in Turin last week, Spurs’ first year scholars will have brought back confidence to Parker’s camp ahead of our under 18’s trip to Fulham on Saturday morning, after an impressive tournament. Spurs finished in third place, topping a group containing Juventus, Borgaro Nobis and Dynamo Kyiv. Only losing on penalties to the eventual winners of the competition (Atalanta) in the semi finals. Spurs managed to find it in them to beat Juventus for a second time, a couple of hours later to win the third place play off. John McDermott’s side thrived in the warm conditions and his young side which contained players as young as 14, adapted really well to the Italians slow tempo style of play and looked more than comfortable in possession against their opponents. You can rewatch all of Spurs’ games on Borgaro’s YouTube channel. And even if your not that interested in watching the full games, they’re worth viewing for the individual excellence of Irish wonder kid Troy Parrott alone, who enjoyed an excellent tournament. Scoring ten goals in five games and in the process securing the golden boot. Other Spurs players who picked up individual awards were J’neil Bennett (best young player), Dilan Markanday (best foreign player) and Maximus Tainio (best defender). Having watched four of our five games, I was most most impressed with Parrott. The range of his goals was phenomenal and his menacing pressing forced teams into making errors. Regarding tomorrows league game against Fulham at Motspur Park, Parker’s side will be looking to respond to an unlucky 2-0 defeat to West Ham in their last outing and will be bolstered with the likes of Maghoma and Bowden all available for selection.

Owing to our under 23’s game against Derby on Saturday lunchtime, I will be unable to cover the Fulham game, sadly. Which is a shame as I’m anticipating a really good game, as two attacking sides who are very close to each other in the table prepare to do battle. We have faced the cottagers on two previous occasions this season and both of those games have ended in 2-1 defeats. Renowned for their academy, Fulham’s main danger man consists of tricky forward Sony Hilton who caused our fullbacks an absolute nightmare of a time in our last meeting back in the league cup. Owing to his excellent form in Italy I would expect schoolboy Troy Parrott to make his third start of the season for the under 18’s and I certainly wouldn’t bet against him adding to his excellent recent goalscoring form. COYS

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) De Bie (c), Hinds, Tainio, Dinzeyi, Reynolds, Bowden, P.Maghoma, Markanday, Patterson, Richards, Parrott.

Subs from: Freeman, Statham, A.Shashoua, Bennett, Clarke.

Doubtful: Jubril Okedina (leg).

Injured/unavailable: Brooklyn Lyons-Foster (ligaments).

My score prediction: Spurs 4-1.

One to watch: The cottagers skilful forward Sony Hilton.

Spurs under 23’s versus Derby County: (match preview)

It’s almost a month since our under 23’s last played a competitive game of football, with Wayne Burnett’s sides glorious 3-1 win over Arsenal being their last game. Starting with tomorrow lunchtime encounter with Derby, Spurs face the first of three hugely important remaining league fixtures. It took a long time to find but Burnett’s side have finally found their form in the league and they’ll need to maintain that if they are to ensure their division one status for another season. Seated one point above Sunderland in the relegation zone, the game against Derby presents Spurs with a big opportunity to bolster their survival chances ahead of tough fixtures against Chelsea and Man City. In many ways it’s a six pointer, as a Spurs win would see them go above the rams who are situated just one point above us. I’m anticipating a close game with so much at stake for both sides. under the tutelage of Darren Wassall Derby have enjoyed a mixed campaign, picking up some impressive results along the way but still finding themselves in a precarious situation. I wasn’t at all impressed with Wassall’s side when they beat us 1-0 in the reverse fixture at Pride park back in October. They looked flat and offered little in the way of creativity, despite this they still managed to beat us. Unbeaten in our last six games in all competitions, if Burnett’s side can demonstrate the same energy levels that thrashed Arsenal 3-1 in our last fixture then I’ve no doubt that we could out do the rams at Hotspur Way on Saturday. I will be reporting on tomorrows game from the training centre and will have my match report published later that evening. COYS

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) Austin, Eyoma, C.Maghoma (c), Tanganga, Georgiou, Marsh, Skipp, S.Shashoua, Pritchard, Bennetts, Griffiths.

Subs from: Whiteman, Brown, Duncan, Roles, Tracey.

Injured/unavailable: Brooklyn Lyons-Foster (ligaments) and Nick Tsaroulla.

Doubtful: Kazaiah Sterling and Shilow Tracey.

My score prediction: Spurs 4-1.

One to watch: The rams top scorer with six league goals and the scorer in the reverse fixture at pride park, Luke Thomas.

In other news: Spurs u23’s assistant manager Justin Cochrane has left his role at the club to take up the job of managing England under 15’s. A highly respected figure at the club, Cochrane had a big impact at Spurs on a wide range of age groups.

Spurs under 18’s 0-2 West Ham United: (match report)

Despite a heartened performance against London rivals West Ham, there was to be no back to back victory for Scott Parker’s side who fell to an unfortunate 2-0 defeat at Little Heath yesterday despite being the far better side for large chunks of the game. I couldn’t wait to get up and report on our u18’s latest outing, having attended a fairly drab international friendly involving Colombia and Australia the previous night, I was longing for more of the stuff that saw us thrash Aston Villa 5-0 at the weekend. That’s why it came as a nasty shock to me when I arrived at the hammers academy in Chadwell Heath, to find out that West Ham aren’t capable of hosting games their! From there I sprinted all the way back to the nearest station and managed to get a cab to Little Heath, a sports ground which contains just two pitches and is located on the grounds of a nearby primary school! I eventually arrived at Little Heath to see the rain drenched pitch where the game would take place, the conditions were awful and I feared that my notepad would not last the game. Spurs’ captain Jonathan De Bie was testing the bounce of the ball prior to kick off. Spurs lined up with a much different team to the one that thrashed Villa at the weekend. With an u17 tournament in Italy starting next week, first year scholars such as Paris Maghoma and Jamie Bowden were all being rested after their heroics at the weekend. It was a surprising selection by Parker who opted to play Skipp at centre half alongside Dinzeyi. Whilst also choosing to play Oakley-Boothe in the centre of the park. The home side got the game underway and went at us straight from kick off through Rosaire Longelo down the left hand side. The left back caught Spurs by surprise as he went gallivanting down the left flank before whipping an inviting cross into the danger zone, which the composed Jonathan Dinzeyi cleared.

Spurs were domination possession in what was a quiet opening couple of minutes of action. The hammers would have the first attempt at goal through Oddyseas Spyrides who fired narrowly wide at De Bie’s near post. Parker’s side were controlling the game but they were struggling to carve open a very defensive West Ham side, the pouring rain was hardly helping matters. Despite our dominance it was the hammers that would have the better chances in the half. A lovely move between Bernardo Rosa and Nkagia resulted in the fullback bursting forward down the right before rifling an effort wide of the mark. Shortly afterwards Spurs produced their first goal attempt of the game through lively left back Jamie Reynolds. Whose powerful effort from range flew across Anang’s goal. There was little in the game apart from a huge gulf in possession, Spurs were having to keep alert to the opportunistic hammers who were more than happy to go route one. The impressive Dinzeyi got back to make a vital block for Spurs who were intent on trying to play fluent attacking football in such dire conditions. After a quiet first half, Parker’s side got the action back underway and it would spell the start of much different half for the lilywhites. It didn’t take long for the half to gather pace. West Ham centre half Mingi spotted an opportunity when he played Spyridis through on goal with a defence splitting pass. One on one with De Bie he seemed destined to score, but the sheer decisiveness of Tottenham centre back Oliver Skipp proved otherwise. Skipp had managed to keep up with Spyridis and despite being the last man he had no hesitations in going in for the challenge. Skipp executed it perfectly and managed to prevent a certain goal for the home team.

Spurs were trying desperately hard to unlock West Ham’s defence, an excellent piece of skill from Patterson almost provided the breakthrough they needed when he burst into the box. Patterson left the ball for Griffiths to follow up but is low effort lacked conviction and it was comfortably saved by Anang. Then came the turning point in the game when the hammers took an unexpected lead through Spyridis on 55 minutes. The goal came about after a cross from Jeremy Ngakia was punched away by the alert De Bie straight into the feet of Spyridis who stood in waiting on the edge of the penalty area. Spyridis made no mistake from close range, and calmly slotted home to give the hammers an undeserved lead on the hour mark. Spurs responded soon afterwards through Reo Griffiths who fired narrowly wide of Anang’s goal. But it was the now resurgent hammers side who were playing with more fluency and creative freedom, the influential Jeremy Ngakia cut inside from the right wing before smashing an effort inches wide of De Bie’s goal. It didn’t take long before the newly introduced Dilan Markanday to make an impact for Parker’s side. After being picked out by a superb cross from Reynolds towards the far post. Markanday only had to tap home, but he got his angles wrong and ended up volleying the ball a fraction wide of the mark, it was a golden chance. And it wouldn’t be long before another golden chance came the lilywhites way, Markanday turned the creator this time. After threading a lovely through ball to Griffiths inside the area, but Spurs’ top scorer fired an effort narrowly wide of the mark.

Parker’s side were actually playing really well despite the abhorrent conditions, but the luck just wasn’t on our side. The usually clinical Griffiths headed a weak free header from Patterson’s corner straight down the throat of Anang. Whilst De Bie kept out Rosaire Longelo’s effort at the other end with a fine stop. The hammers then seized their chance with just over 15 minutes of the game remaining when they made it 2-0. Spyridis was once again causing the Spurs defence problems, this time as he twisted and turned his way past both Skipp and Dinzeyi before entering the penalty. Skipp tried to be the hero once again but this time he got his sliding challenge all wrong and ended up bringing Spyridis down for a blatant West Ham penalty. Up stepped the hammers top scorer Korrey Henry who calmly fired home from the penalty spot. Despite the two goal deficit Parker’s side continued to fight hard to try and break the deep lying West Ham defence. Apart from a powerful effort from Ngakia for the home side it was Spurs who would dominate the last 15 minutes of the game. The creative Reynolds managed to slip Griffiths in inside the danger zone, Griffiths took the ball past Anang before trying to slalom his way past a West Ham defender and then aiming a low effort at goal. However, his effort lacked pace and was easily cleared on the line by Mason Barrett. A flurry of late chances came Spurs’ way but still the West Ham defence would not budge. Oliver Skipp who had now been converted into the centre of midfield following the introduction of Maxwell Statham. Managed to pick out Griffiths inside the area with a lovely drilled pass. But despite a good first touch from the Spurs forward his effort managed to fall short of the target once more.

The hammers almost got their third of the game when substitute Sean Adarkwa volleyed centremetres wide of goal at De Bie’s near post. To Spurs’ credit thy continued to go for the game despite the risks of conceding a third. Reo Griffiths had his promisingly struck effort deflected behind for a corner. Whilst the final piece of action came from that corner kick, which was whipped in with venom by Reynolds who had managed to pick out the totally unmarked Statham at the back post. But what should have been a simple tap in for the Spurs defender turned out to be yet more agony. Statham’s volley was excellently blocked on the line by the feet of Longelo. Luck wasn’t on Spurs’ side for this frustrating encounter in east London. Our next league fixture is away to Fulham on Saturday 7 April. In the meantime a Spurs u17 side will compete in a short tournament in Italy next week. The tournament which is called the Torneo Mario Maggioni – Walter Rhigi. Begins tomorrow and will last until the third of April. Our group contains Juventus, Dynamo Kyiv and Borgaro Nobis. As for attending that next league game against Fulham I’m in a bit of a dilemma. Our under 23’s are hosting Derby at the training centre on the same day in an important relegation six pointer, but I obviously can’t attend both games. Though I am more inclined to report on the Derby County game due to the importance of it. COYS

Player reviews: – Jonathan De Bie: Despite conceding two goals De Bie had little else to deal with during the game apart from having to make a fine save in the second half. Was by no means at fault for either of those goals.
– Tariq Hinds: Stayed deep and all in all put in a solid showing at right back. Allowed the more attacking fullback in Reynolds to have creative freedom down the opposite side.
– Jamie Reynolds: Another fine performance from the flying left back who remained one of Spurs’ best players throughout the game. His promising attacking forays combined with his excellent close ball control and crossing ability made him one of our main attacking threats. Whilst also managing to give a good account of himself defensively. His crossing is absolutely perfect! Reynolds continues to impress me.
– Tashan Oakley-Boothe: I was a tad surprised to see Oakley-Boothe’s name on the team sheet for this one. He was played in the holding midfield role but in my eyes he didn’t make much of an impression on the game. Yes he was tidy with the ball but I didn’t feel that he impacted the game from both a creative and defensive aspect. He is not a steely defence minded player.
– Oliver Skipp: My motm, see below.
– Jonathan Dinzeyi: Yet another excellent and assured display from the imperious centre half. Dominant in the air and decisive on the ground making many an important intervention. Dinzeyi was so composed not eh ball and hardly put a foot wrong apart from the second West Ham goal.
– Jeremie Mukendi: The pacy winger struggled to make much of an impact down the right flank. His touch wasn’t the best at times and the imposing Longelo rarely allowed him to get past.
– Armando Shashoua: Very good on the ball. Kept things moving with his fast and deftly accurate passing in the middle of the park. Showed great movement and got forward on plenty of occasions, Shashoua does so much for the team. There was incident which summed up his ‘tough as nails’ attitude. It occurred during the second half, a West Ham player ended up blasting the ball from close range at a very sensitive part of his body. In absolute agony for some time, he still carried on regardless and covered the pitch like nobody else before eventually being brought off some 20 or so minutes later.
– Reo Griffiths: Not his day at all. Had four golden chances but failed to make them count could easily have been celebrating a hat-trick on another day. The ball just wouldn’t fall for him. Whilst he has been exceptional this season I think it’s worth remembering just how new he is to the position of centre forward.
– Phoenix Patterson: Showed good vision and awareness and managed to embark on a couple of promising attacking forays. But I felt that he went missing for large periods of the game.
– Rodel Richards: Gave a good account of himself out left, struggled to impact the game as much due to the wet conditions. Worked very hard as always.
– Dilan Markanday: Provided the spark we so desperately needed following his introduction to the game on the hour mark. His tricky little runs down the right flank managed to cause many problems for the hammers defence. His low centre of gravity and weaving techniques making him almost unflappable with the ball at his feet. One such attacking foray saw him totally embarrass Longelo with a lovely nutmeg. He also laid a lovely pass to Griffiths later on.
– Maxwell Statham: Decent cameo at centre half. Looked good on the ball, could/should have scored after receiving that late chance.

My man of the match: Oliver Skipp. I thought that the mature Oliver Skipp put in a really good display at centre half for the majority of the game. He read the game well and was quick at anticipating danger. Managed to also make a terrific last ditch challenge in the area during the first half. Yes, he may have conceded a penalty later on in the game but I thought that he looked really composed and intelligent in his play. Even after being moved to central midfield later on, he made a couple of really clever passes. He played with his arm out, constantly pointing out things to his team mates. His extraordinary reading of the game knows no bounds.

Spurs U18s: De Bie (c), Hinds, Reynolds, Oakley-Boothe, Skipp, Dinzeyi, Mukendi (Markanday 60), A Shashoua (Statham 72), Griffiths, Patterson, Richards. Substitutes (not used): Freeman, Lock, Thorpe.

Under 18 Goals scored this season: Reo Griffiths-25
Phoenix Patterson -8
Dilan Markanday- 6
Jamie Bowden- 1
Moroyin Omolabi-1
Rayan Clarke-2
Maurizio Pochettino-1
Paris Maghoma-3
Rodel Richards-12
J’neill Lloyd-Bennett-2
TJ Eyoma-1

Assists: Phoenix Patterson-9
Jamie Bowden-1
Matt Lock- 2
Jeremie Mukendi-2
Jamie Reynolds-6
Reo Griffiths-8
J’neill Lloyd-Bennett-6
Rayan Clarke-2
Rodel Richards-1
Dilan Markanday-3
Oliver Skipp-1
Tariq Hinds- 1
Paris Maghoma-5
Armando Shashoua-1
Maurizio Pochettino -1

Spurs under 18’s versus West Ham United: (match preview)

Our under 18’s are back in action on Wednesday for their second league game in just five days. As Scott Parker’s side travel to east London to face West Ham at their Little Heath training facility. Things are looking up for Spurs in the league, unbeaten in their last seven matches and on the back of an emphatic 5-0 win against Aston Villa at the weekend, Spurs will really fancy their chances against the hammers. A side who haven’t played a competitive game in over a month, it’s hard to know what to make of the hammers who were knocked out of the FA youth cup by Blackpool in the third round. And currently sit in 10th place in the table. I’m expecting a similar looking Spurs team to the one that thrashed Villa at the weekend. With players such as Rayan Clarke and Rodel Richards expected to start the game. My in depth match report of tomorrows London derby will be up on Wednesday evening. COYS

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) De Bie(c), Hinds, Statham, Dinzeyi, Reynolds, Bowden, A.Shashoua, Markanday, P.Maghoma, Clarke, Richards.

Subs from: Oluwayemi, Tainio, Patterson, Bennett, Griffiths.

Doubtful: Jubril Okedina (leg) has resumed outdoor training.

Injured/unavailable: Jeremie Mukendi (arm), Brooklyn Lyons-Foster (ligaments), Elliot Thorpe (away with Wales u19’s), Troy Parrott (away with Ireland u17’s).

My score prediction: Spurs 4-1.

One to watch: West Ham’s top scorer in the league this season, Korrey Henry.

My interview with former Spurs academy graduate Cameron Lancaster:

Cameron Lancaster now of Louisville city in the USA, is a product of the Tottenham Hotspur academy. The 25 year old striker came through the ranks at Spurs before making a solemn first team appearance in the 2011/12 season. The promising centre forward was blighted by injuries during his time with the lilywhites and was released by the club in 2014 having stints at both Stevenage and St Albans before making the move across the pond to the USA. Now 25, Cameron is enjoying life in Kentucky and only last season he helped Louisville to the USL title. I caught up with Cameron to discuss his memories from his time at Spurs.

What are your earliest memories of your time at Spurs and how did you come about joining the club?

Cameron: Earliest memories are joining spurs after a 2 week trial from my Sunday league team. My dad and Sunday league manager had previously sent a letter in to a few clubs asking for a trial but Spurs were the only ones to reply and take me in!

What was your time at Spurs like on the whole?

Cameron: Looking back, apart from the injuries it was great. I had really good coaches such as Les Ferdinand, Chris Ramsay and Tim Sherwood and got to play along side really great players. You see a lot of ex players from Spurs just want to see the team do well and I’m the same, that comes from how the club treats you so I have nothing but thanks to give.

Who was your footballing inspiration/hero?

Cameron: Brazilian Ronaldo for sure. His physicality mixed with his technique and skill was how I wanted to play, every opportunity I had I would try and watch him on the tv.

Who were your greatest influences at the club?

Cameron: John McDermott was always a big influence, he just wants the best for everyone and he really helped me at times. Also Chris Ramsay, Tim and Les as I got older really pushed me forward to the first team, I have to thank them a lot for me making my debut.

Were there any other players at the club or outside, who you’d model your game around?

Cameron: When Eidur Gudjohnsen came in I would watch him a lot. I saw his composure and movement on and off the ball and tried to involve that in my game. Also Defoe’s finishing was always good to watch and learn from.

What was the toughest thing about being a young up and coming player during that time?

Cameron: Toughest part was probably the competition. We had a lot of players from abroad coming in, there wasn’t an average player out of the 20 or so of us.

What was your greatest memory from your time at the lilywhites?

Cameron: Greatest memory was definitely making my debut. We were 3-0 up and Redknapp called me over from the bench and told me I was going on and to enjoy it. I played for 20 mins and did pretty well, nearly got a goal too and then the next week I was on the bench at Liverpool too. As a kid you dream about playing in the prem so to even get 20 mins out there, I’m thankful.

Could you talk me through your career after you left Spurs?

Cameron: After my debut I got injured pretty badly and was out for a year and after coming back from that I had 6 months playing and did my ACL. My contract was coming to an end so we mutually agreed to call it a day. I went to stevenage for about 2 months and then had an opertunity to get to America so I took it. Unfortunately I did my other ACL 2 weeks after signing for Louisville City but I’m all good now and we won the league last season.

Who is the greatest player that you have pleasure of sharing a pitch with?

Cameron: Has to be either Modric or Bale, they were both playing when I made my debut and they were both world class however if Harry keeps this up it would have to be him!

Harry Kane. He was a man who you would have known well whilst playing in the academy. What was he like as a player coming up the youth ranks?

Cameron: First off he always scored, whatever age he’s been he has always scored goals. He’s never been the quickest or even the strongest but he’s always been very driven and he’s worked on his game a lot and that’s why he’s where he is now.

Who is the toughest defender that you have come up against thus far?

Cameron: That would be Woodgate. I remember training against him and he would block off my runs and somehow whenever I would shield the ball he would always get a toe on the ball and knock it away. Wasn’t the quickest or strongest but very smart.

What would your advice be to the current Spurs academy players, as they look to make their way up the footballing pyramid?

Cameron: Play games wherever you can would be my advice. There’s never a guarantee that you’ll play for the first team so the more you get yourself out in the league and get seen, the better it will be for your career. Also, you have to be 100% focused and driven and make football your life, the more effort you put into the game the more you’ll get out of the game.

Spurs under 18’s 5-0 Aston Villa: (match report)

A spectacular attacking performance from our under 18’s saw us brush aside Aston Villa on Saturday afternoon, in an enthralling league encounter at Bodymoor Heath. Scott Parker’s side dominated the game from start to finish, overwhelming the villains with their fast attacking football and high press. Villa were lax and their reluctance to press our players allowed them to play and create at ease, they just couldn’t deal with the creativity of the likes of Maghoma, Markanday and Bowden who were able to open the Villa defence all too easily. Not only was it a great response to our 2-0 league cup defeat to Chelsea last Sunday, but it also bolstered our position in the league. Our emphatic 5-0 victory over Villa saw us move up to sixth in the table, we are now the third highest scorers in the league with 41 goals. The strong smell of turf which was coming from the local farms of county Warwickshire, was in the air as the players made their way out on to the pitch. Spurs lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, Parker made changes from the defeat against Chelsea, bringing in the likes of Tainio and Oluwayemi for rare league starts, Jonathan Dinzeyi took the captains armband for this one. The home side got the game underway, and it didn’t take long before both sides got stuck in to the game. It was a fast paced opening couple of minutes, Paris Maghoma tried his luck from range with a powerful low effort. Whilst an alert Villa pounced on a loose ball at the other end, make shift centre back Tariq Hinds missing out to Odutayo on the edge of box, his effort flew just over Oluwayemi’s crossbar.

Spurs were eager to initiate attacking moves, playing some nice tiki taka football as they tried to open up the Villa defence. Spurs’ bright start to proceedings resulted in Parker’s side taking the lead only five minutes into the game. It was a lovely intricate move by Spurs which managed to totally outwit the Villa defence. Patterson passed the ball to Reynolds down the left wing, the fullback delivered a lovely cross into the danger zone which managed to pick out Maghoma. Maghoma hit the ball early and forced a good save out of the Villa goalkeeper Kieran Boucher, who parried. The alert Markanday pounced on to the loose ball and did well to slot home at the far post, 1-0. Villa responded through Colin Odutayo, who managed to force a good stop out of Oluwayemi at his near post after a thumping effort. But the sheer intent and intricacy by Spurs was proving far too much for the struggling villains, and only four minutes later Parker’s side doubled their lead. Our high pressing, attacking football was going down a treat. Armando Shashoua’s fine vision resulted in him sending a neat through ball into the feet of Maghoma inside the box. Maghoma weaved his way around Boucher before curling the ball against the inside of the post, luckily the ball rolled back across goal and into the feet of Griffiths to tap home. It should have been 3-0 to Spurs a couple of moments later, after Tainio’s low cross managed to pick out Griffiths who slipped in Markanday inside the area. But the winger couldn’t keep his composure in front of goal as he side footed the ball inches wide of Boucher’s goal.

Despite our excellent start to the game we were still vulnerable on the break, as proved by Vassilev who managed to cause all sorts of difficulties for Spurs after embarking on a surging run down the middle. He slipped the ball into Odutayo down the left, but Odutayo made the wrong choice in the end as he opted to drag the ball across the face of Oluwayemi’s goal. Spurs continued to hassle the Aston Villa goalkeeper, the prominent Jamie Reynolds’ free kick forced Boucher into punching clear. The ball was eventually picked up by Bowden who managed to pick out Griffiths inside the box with a sublime pin point pass. However, Griffiths didn’t have enough time to sort his feet out, and Boucher managed to smother the ball. The chances kept on coming Spurs’ way, Armando Shashoua missed a sitter after receiving Tainio’s cross at the back post, scuppering what should have been a tap in. But Spurs were relentless, it was sheer domination from Parker’s team. Who were totally outplaying this somewhat lazy Villa outfit. Reynolds had a teasing cross cleared in front of Boucher’s goal, before Paris Maghoma forced an error out of the Villa keeper with a powerful effort at goal. Boucher spilt the ball but did manage to get to it before the pouncing Griffiths, to palm it to safety. Dmitri Sea then forced a decent save out of Oluwayemi at the other end after a rare Villa attack. But the bulk of the action involved Boucher in the Villa goal. The tricky Markanday was causing major problems for Villa down the right hand side, a tricky run resulted in him crossing for Griffiths at the near post. Unmarked and in acres of space I expected our top scorer to gobble up such a chance, but not this time! Griffiths managed to get it all wrong and ended up heading the ball the wrong side of goal.

The prominent Markanday was at the centre of the action once again a couple of minutes later. After turning his man brilliantly down the right flank he then squared the ball to Maghoma on the edge of the box, but the midfielder ended up skying the ball over Boucher’s goal. Spurs’ further domination of the half saw them rewarded with a third shortly afterwards. Coming courtesy of another intricate move, Jamie Reynolds excellent cross from the left hand side managed to pick out Griffiths inside the danger zone. The striker snatched at the ball forcing an excellent save out of Boucher. The ball then came out to Maghoma whose well measured volley brushed the leg of Griffiths en route to finding the back of the net, 3-0. It was all too easy for Parker’s side who were being allowed to run rings around a tired looking villains side who were offering very little attacking threat. Chances were aplenty for Parker’s side, Markanday could easily have made it four were it not for a superb save from the feet of Boucher. By this point the Villa defenders were livid, I heard many a roar of ”it’s too f’ing easy!”. Despite our stranglehold on the game, the young lilywhites knew from previous experience that they mustn’t drop their heads. The tireless Armando Shashoua epitomised this urgency in the Spurs side, when he ran the length of the pitch before making a vital interception inside the Spurs box to prevent a goalscoring chance. Spurs got the second half back underway against a noticeably more defensive Villa team.

Spurs were continuing to dominate possession, knocking the ball around with ease as they thought about making their next attacking foray. Excellent throughout, Dilan Markanday almost grabbed a brace after getting on to the end of Patterson’s cross, but a fine block by Jake Walker prevented a simple tap in for the winger. Chances came and went for both sides, the commanding Dinzeyi made an important intervention inside the Spurs box. Whilst Jamie Bowden curled an effort a whisker wide of the Villa goal a couple of minutes later. I sensed that it was never going to be Villa’s day, after Mungo Bridge missed an absolute sitter at Oluwayemi’s far post, Villa were wasteful and despite a bit of a resurgence in the second half, they were proving little match for Parker’s energetic side. The creative Maghoma sliced an effort wide for the lilywhites, who would soon bring on fresh legs in striker Rodel Richards, who replaced Griffiths on the hour mark. Despite lowering their tempo Spurs continued to carve open a very sorry looking Villa defence. Some fine work from the dominant Dinzeyi to win the ball in the centre of the park resulted in the defender placing a lovely forward pass into the feet of Markanday, who advanced into the Villa box only having his powerful effort stopped by yet another fine piece of goalkeeping from Boucher. Then with less than 20 minutes left Spurs grabbed their fourth of the afternoon through substitute Rodel Richards. Parker’s side had killed the game off in style, the goal coming from yet another intricate attacking move.

The move started down the right with Tainio picking up the ball, the Finnish youth international managed to pick out Shashoua who was lurking at the far post, with a pin point cross. Shashoua battled with a much taller Villa defender for the ball, managing to send a delicate looping header across goal and into Richards who nodded home with ease. Spurs were passing the ball around for fun, Villa had capitulated and Parker’s young side were loving every moment of it. Playing with a smile on their faces Spurs were playing some lovely fluent stuff, the powerful Paris Maghoma and the diligent Dilan Markanday were at the forefront of this. And it was the great vision of Paris Maghoma which created our fifth of the game on 80 minutes. The midfielder who had dropped deeper in the second half, managed to send substitute Pochettino through on goal down the right channel, courtesy of a defence splitting pass from the half way line. Pochettino had only Boucher to beat down the right side of the penalty area, with the goal gaping Pochettino unleashed a powerful effort straight at the Villa goalkeeper. The ball came back out to Richards on the edge of the penalty area, the forward steadied himself before hitting the ball into the turf and over the unsteady Boucher. Despite Isaiah Bazeley Graham’s acrobatic effort to stop the ball on the line it evaded the Villa defender and crossed the line possibly with a touch from Clarke on the way in, 5-0. Villa had a golden chance to get a consolation goal soon after the restart, when Jamie Bowden was robbed of the ball on the edge of the Tottenham box by Lewis Brunt. Brunt continued into the box but somehow failed to beat Oluwayemi, as he fired wide of the left post.

Then came a slightly comedic moment after substitute Rayan Clarke blasted the ball at Villa defender Dominic Revan. Revan was on the floor wincing in pain, but the Spurs players weren’t having none of it, Paris Maghoma even telling him to grow up! The final score Spurs 5-0 Aston Villa. A performance of the highest quality from Parker’s side saw them completely dominate a really poor looking Villa side at a venue where they have struggled over recent seasons. It was a great response to the cup final defeat against Chelsea the previous weekend. Up next for Parker’s side is a trip to East London to face West Ham on Wednesday lunchtime. COYS

Player reviews: – Josh Oluwayemi: A good performance from the 17 year old GK on his first start for the u18’s. Didn’t have a lot to do, but what he did do he did well. Made one top save, gave a commanding performance in front of the back four and looked very comfortable with the ball at his feet.
– Maximus Tainio: Put in a competent performance at right back, was particularly impressive going forward. Whipped some delightful crosses into the danger zone. Played a big part in our fourth goal.
– Jamie Reynolds: Another terrific performance from the 18 year old. Who posed a major attacking threat down the left hand side, loved to burst forward and overlap Patterson. Whipping in many a delightful cross in the process. Reynolds was also sound defensively and good at getting back. He really is developing into a really promising fullback.
– Jamie Bowden: Proved once again that he is a real creative force from deep. Kept things nice and tidy and did his defensive duties well. But it was his accurate passing and clever little forward balls which were so influential. I can’t remember him misplacing a single pass in the game.
– Tariq Hinds: A very accomplished performance from the versatile Hinds, looked more than comfortable at centre half against Villa. Read the game well and liked to play the ball out from the back.
– Jonathan Dinzeyi: A very impressive performance from the commanding Dinzeyi at centre half. The skipper was dominant and decisive, composed both on and off the ball. He had a terrific game and made many an important challenge.
– Dilan Markanday: The diligent winger was superb throughout and provide Spurs with one of their main creative outlets. Unshakeable down the right whenever he surged forward, Markanday’s trademark skill and clever twists and turns had the Villa defenders dizzy and dazed. Some of his attacking forays were sublime, he has really come to remind me of Edwards but with a higher work rate. Took his goal really well.
– Paris Maghoma: My motm, see below.
– Reo Griffiths: Despite the uncertainty regarding his future at the club, he isn’t letting the Leipzig links affect his form in front of goal. Had a good game against Villa scoring a deserved brace, though he knew little about his second. Despite this he could well have had four goals, squandered a lot of really good chances.
– Armando Shashoua: Drifted all over the park, but always made sure that he got back into his own half to make those important interceptions and tackles. Showed more of his attacking side against Villa picking out some nice passes. Shashoua also got his first assist of the campaign, setting up Richards for the fourth.
– Phoenix Patterson: Another player who remained a major creative force throughout the game, with his fine vision and creativity out left. Was always eager to make runs down the left hand side.
– Rodel Richards: Terrific half an hour cameo from Richards who couldn’t have had more of an influence on the game if he tried. Scored two really well taken goals.
– Maurizio Pochettino: Decent cameo down the right hand side, made a couple of good runs down that channel. Played a big part in our fifth of the game.
– Rayan Clarke: Had little time to make an impression, some may say that he got the final touch on Richards second of the game. I’ll leave that to the dubious goals committee!

My man of the match: Paris Maghoma. A player that had an immense impact on the game, midfielder Paris Maghoma (16) ran the show against Aston Villa. Operating primarily as a 10 in the first half, Maghoma overwhelmed the Villa defence with his powerful forward runs and excellent positioning in and around the six yard box. Maghoma set up one of our three goals in the first half and was desperately unlucky not to have got on the scoresheet. He dropped deeper in the second half but still had a major influence on proceedings with his defence splitting passes and played a big part in setting up our fifth of the game. Maghoma has such a wide ranging skillset, but there’s one trait in particular which is so effective. And that’s his ability to surge forward and just glide past opposition players with such ease. He was so unlucky not to get a goal for himself.

Spurs U18s: Oluwayemi, Tainio, Reynolds, Bowden, Hinds, Dinzeyi (c), Markanday (Pochettino 72), P Maghoma, Griffiths (Richards 61), A Shashoua, Patterson (Clarke 78). Substitutes (not used): Freeman, Statham.

Under 18 Goals scored this season: Reo Griffiths-25
Phoenix Patterson -8
Dilan Markanday-6
Jamie Bowden- 1
Moroyin Omolabi-1
Rayan Clarke-2
Maurizio Pochettino-1
Paris Maghoma-3
Rodel Richards-12
J’neill Lloyd-Bennett-2
TJ Eyoma-1

Assists: Phoenix Patterson-9
Jamie Bowden-1
Matt Lock-2
Jeremie Mukendi-2
Jamie Reynolds-6
Reo Griffiths-8
J’neill Lloyd-Bennett-6
Rayan Clarke-2
Rodel Richards-1
Dilan Markanday-3
Oliver Skipp-1
Tariq Hinds-1
Paris Maghoma-5
Armando Shashoua-1
Maurizio Pochettino -1

Spurs under 18’s versus Aston Villa: (match preview)

Scott Parker’s Spurs under 18 side resume league action on Saturday lunchtime when they visit Bodymoor Heath for the rearranged league fixture against Aston Villa. Parker’s side will be looking to respond from their disappointing 2-0 defeat to Chelsea in last Sunday’s u18 premier league cup final. Now with only the league to focus their attentions on, Spurs will be looking to finish the season strongly. Tomorrows opposition Aston Villa sit just the one position below them in the table in eight, having played a game more than Spurs. A team who Spurs have had a historically poor record against at this level, the villains haven’t endured the most successful of seasons this time round. Villa have only picked up 19 points from 17 league games, including just the six at home. On top of this, they exited the FA youth cup in the fourth round to Bury. And were also eliminated in the group stages of the league cup, losing all three of their games including a 4-1 defeat to Parker’s side at Hotspur Way. Villa were particularly poor that day and there were very few players that caught my eye, in that comprehensive victory for our lads. However, Parker’s side did loose 1-0 to Villa in the reverse league fixture earlier on in the season. Spurs travel to Tamworth with a fair few players missing, owing both to the international break and a growing injury list which includes star player Brooklyn Lyons-Foster who succumbed to an injury in the cup final against Chelsea. I will be reporting from Bodymoor Heath on tomorrows game, as a rotated Spurs side look to respond to the heartbreak of last Sunday. My in depth match report will be published on Saturday night. COYS

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) Oluwayemi, Hinds(c), Statham, Dinzeyi, Reynolds, Bowden, P.Maghoma, Clarke, A.Shashoua, Bennett, Richards.

Subs from: De Bie, Lock, Patterson, Markanday, Pochettino.

Doubtful: Charlie Freeman (arm), Griffiths (injury?), Tashan Oakley Boothe.

Injured/unavailable: Jeremie Mukendi (arm), Jubril Okedina (leg), Brooklyn Lyons-Foster(ligaments), Elliot Thorpe (away with Wales u19’s), Troy Parrott (away with Ireland u17’s), Maximus Tainio (away with Finland u17’s).

My score prediction: Spurs 3-2.

One to watch: Villas top scorer in the league this term with 5 goals, Dimitri Sea.

Spurs under 18’s 0-2 Chelsea: (match report)

After getting a bus replacement service from Surbiton through the leafy villages of Surrey I eventually reached the small village of Cobham and Stoke d’abernon, which is home to Chelsea’s training ground. Filled with excitement I made my way towards the pitch where the u18 premier league cup final between Chelsea and Spurs was being held. It was all very official, there were separate stands for the Spurs and Chelsea supporting families, and there was even music being blasted out of large speakerphones that were placed by the pitch. It was the biggest game of Scott Parker’s sides career, after progressing past some of the finest teams in the country en route to the final, it was our lads time to show old foes Chelsea what they were capable. Unfortunately they never quite managed to make an impression on the game, which was controlled from start to finish by a dominant possession based Chelsea side whose physical and mental prowess proved too much for our lads. They controlled the game throughout, suffocating our creative supply lines and isolating the likes of Bennett and Markanday out wide. It was a very similar game to the one that saw Jody Morris’s side knock us out of the Youth cup earlier on in the season, we simply weren’t allowed to play. And that showed in front of goal, we only ever managed about two attempts on target and it even made me feel sorry for the blues goalkeeper Karlo Ziger who had so little to do that he had probably developed frost bite. Regarding the team selection for Spurs there was one big surprise, as Parker gave the nod to Troy Parrott to start up front for Spurs on their most important game of the season, despite only making his debut a couple of days before. The absence of top scorer Reo Griffiths from the squad will only fuel rumours of him leaving the club at the expiration of his contract in the summer. But he may just have been injured.

As for the rest of the team selection I was a little disappointed not to see Paris Maghoma and Rayan Clarke start the game. Maghoma for his superb driving runs from the midfield, and Clarke for his lung bursting runs down the right flank, but that is merely my opinion. Spurs got the cup final underway at Chelsea’s bitterly cold Cobham training centre. After a quiet opening couple of minutes Chelsea had the first attempt on goal of the game, after Tariq Uwakwe cut inside from the right before forcing De Bie into making a comfortable save. Spurs then had a penalty shout at the other end after Bennett’s low cross picked out Parrott inside the box. The Dubliner turned his man exquisitely before being brought down from behind, his claims for a penalty were waived away. Chelsea were now stamping their authority on the game, Castillo responded to the brief Spurs threat by whipping a dangerous ball across the face of De Bie’s goal. After a quiet opening 10 or so minutes the game was turned on its head all of a sudden after Daniel Austin (the referee) made a brave call. After a strangely poor back pass by Lyons-Foster allowed Uwakwe to sprint through on goal, De Bie sharply came out of his goal. Supposedly bringing down Uwakwe, who went to the ground as he attempted to get a hand on the ball. Up stepped Conor Gallagher whose powerful low effort was spectacularly saved low down by De Bie, who managed to collapse his body at the perfect time. It really was top class goalkeeping from the Belgian to keep out the usually clinical Gallagher. Spurs were now having to deal with a bit of a Chelsea onslaught.

After sustained pressure on the Spurs defence Chelsea’s patience was rewarded after they took the lead on 18 minutes. The goal came about after an in swinging cross from the right flank picked out Marc Guehi. The defenders acrobatic effort found its way to Charlie Brown, who lashed past De Bie from four yards out. Parker’s side had no way to respond as the blues tight defence prevented them from getting out of their own half. Chelsea almost made it 2-0 shortly afterwards, George McEachran’s brilliant through ball set Brown running through on goal. Brown glided past Lyons-Foster before unleashing a thunderbolt of a shot, which came cannoning off of De Bie’s post. The ball came back to Brown and it ended up rebounding off him and back towards the Belgians goal. De Bie’s razor sharp reaction save only preventing it from being 2-0. This was really poor from Parker’s side who were offering zero threat of a comeback, Parrott was working incredibly hard to make things happen up top. But he was getting no service from the wide men who had been totally isolated. An unfortunate injury occurred when Lyons-Foster pulled up injured, clearly in pain the defender knew that he couldn’t continue, and was duly replace by Jonathan Dinzeyi on the half hour mark. Tariq Hinds received a yellow after making a cynical foul on a Chelsea forward as the one traffic continued. The potent Tariq Lamptey drifted past Reynolds down that right hand side before hitting a powerful effort goal bound effort from an acute angle, which was well saved by De Bie. Gilmour’s volley from the resulting corner kick was well blocked by Bowden inside the Spurs box, but despite this the Chelsea players vehemently protested for a penalty.

Unfortunately it came as no surprise when Jody Morris’s side doubled their lead on the stroke of half time. The blues had managed to open up our defence once again, a clever through ball from Billy Gilmour played Brown through on goal. The centre forward making no mistake as he rifled the ball into the bottom corner of De Bie’s goal, 0-2. It was the least that Chelsea deserved, Spurs had not even managed to have one attempt on the Chelsea goal during the first half! Scott Parker gave Parrott a talking to on the pitch as the players emerged out of the dressing rooms, forward Phoenix Patterson would start the half in a deeper position. The opening couple of minutes of the second half was like a rerun of the first. An intricate Chelsea move saw Brown back heel the ball to McEachran whose effort was deflected narrowly wide. Marc Guehi headed wide from the resulting Chelsea corner kick. Chelsea were giving Spurs no time on the ball, Parker had to change things up. One such positive change occurred shortly before the hour mark after attack minded midfielder Paris Maghoma replaced Jamie Bowden in the centre of midfield. Meanwhile Troy Parrott nodded wide from a Phoenix Patterson free kick, he had been completely crowded out by Chelsea players. Chelsea continued to threaten the Tottenham goal, the only meaningful Spurs attacks were coming from counter attacks. Such as the one orchestrated by Hinds round the 70 minute mark. The right back embarked on a blistering run down the right wing, managing to beat a couple of Chelsea players before crossing towards Bennett at the far post. But the wingers effort was blocked by a Chelsea player as he went clattering to the ground, it was yet another piece of brilliant defending by Chelsea.

Though Chelsea were a lot happier just to the pass the ball around in this half, they could still open our defence at will. Tariq Lamptey beat Reynolds once again down the right hand side, before firing the ball agonisingly across the face of De Bie’s goal. The impressive Jonathan Dinzeyi managed to make two important pieces of defending. First to make a perfect sliding challenge to prevent Lamptey’s advances. And secondly to put Gilmour off inside the penalty area. The Chelsea bombardment continued when substitute Taylor-Crossdale tested De Bie from range. The final was already won, chances were limited to hopeful crosses by Spurs. Such as the delivery that Hinds whipped into the danger zone towards the latter stages of the game, despite Parrott’s best efforts he couldn’t quite reach it. To Spurs’ credit they were giving it a good old go as the game went on. And we almost managed to pull a goal back through Parrott. The striker forced a fine save out of Karlo Ziger, after managing to peal away from his man and connect with Patterson’s inviting cross inside the six yard box. Parrott’s effort was the last real effort Spurs could muster on goal, it was all Chelsea for the final 15 or so minutes of the final. Thanks to Jonathan De Bie in the Spurs goal, we managed to keep it to just being 2-0 down. The Belgian produced a fine stop to prevent Uwakwe’s effort, before making a blunder soon afterwards when he passed the ball straight out to McEachran who quickly squared the ball for Taylor-Crossdale inside the box. However, the strikers first time effort was deflected out for a corner by Tottenham.

Chelsea continued to go in search of goal number three, McEachran testing De Bie from range. Parker’s side didn’t stop trying until the final whistle despite the fact that they struggled to get the ball off of Chelsea. A sloppy pass from Gallagher did present Spurs with a chance in the dying moments of the game, after he passed the ball straight to substitute Rodel Richards. The forward drove at the Chelsea defence before slipping a nice pass into Parrott down the left hand side, but despite his best efforts he was crowded out by the resilient Chelsea defence. Parrott and Lamptey exchanged a few words after clattering into each other. The final score, a disappointing but not unexpected 2-0 defeat to Chelsea in the final of the under 18 premier league cup. After a brilliant run in the competition Spurs eventually met their match in this outstanding Chelsea side, who even had the cheek of leaving out six of their best players at this age group! Next up for Parker’s lads is a trip up to the midlands to face Aston Villa next Saturday, as they resume league action.

Player reviews: – Jonathan De Bie: Had an excellent game in between the sticks, made three or four excellent saves. Including a stunning one to deny Gallagher from the penalty spot. He has been very good all season.
– Tariq Hinds: One of the few players who had a good game, Hinds protected the right flank from the potent threat of Castillo. He was defensively sound and dealt well with the flying Dutchman who is renowned for his lightning fast pace. Also gave a fairly good account of himself going forward.
– Jamie Reynolds: Decent performance, struggled to deal with the powerful Tariq Uwakwe who had the beating of him for pace. Reynolds did however do quite well whenever he managed to burst past the half way line.
– Jamie Bowden: Gave a good account of himself in the centre of the park despite being overpowered on occasions by the dominant Chelsea midfield. I didn’t think the game suited his or Skipp’s style of play. Worked tirelessly.
– TJ Eyoma: Decent performance up against some very tricky customers. Did well to keep up with the pace of the Chelsea forwards.
– Brooklyn Lyons-Foster: Did a fine job up until his unfortunate injury that he picked up on the half hour mark. Sadly it looks like he suffered ligament damage.
– Dilan Markanday: Worked hard down the right flank but he couldn’t really make an impact on the game, was isolated out wide.
– Oliver Skipp: Decent performance by the u23 starlet, but like Bowden he couldn’t really influence the game with his creative play.
– Troy Parrott: My motm, see below.
– Phoenix Patterson: Whipped a couple of nice deliveries into the Spurs box but apart from that he was anonymous for most of the game.
– J’neil Bennett: Another player whose hard work went unrewarded. Bennett was unable to make much of an impact down the left flank.
– Jonathan Dinzeyi: Had an excellent game after coming onto replace Lyons-Foster on the half hour mark. Held his own, showed good positioning and managed to make some vital interceptions and blocks.
– Paris Maghoma: Made a positive impression on the midfield after his second half introduction. It was very hard to break past the Chelsea defence, but he did go on a couple of nice attacking forays.
– Rodel Richards: Too short a cameo to make much of an impact on the game. Richards was played behind Parrott.

My man of the match: Troy Parrott. The schoolboy was my man of the match for many reasons, despite getting virtually no service he tried his utmost to create for himself. Pressed relentlessly and showed fire in his belly, getting stuck in against much more physical defenders. Once again he showed that Kane like ability to drift out wide and work for the team. Some of his movement such as the one where he turned his man inside the box was top draw. Shows great intelligence for a player so young. Parrott won’t be involved for the next two u18 games due to international involvement with Ireland under 17’s.

Chelsea U18s: Ziger, Lamptey, Lavinier, Guehi, Mola, Gallagher (c), Uwakwe, Gilmour, Brown (Taylor-Crossdale 70), McEachran, Castillo (Anjorin 82). Substitute (not used): Tie, Wakely, Redan.

Spurs U18s: De Bie (c), Hinds, Reynolds, Bowden (P Maghoma 58), Eyoma, Lyons-Foster (Dinzeyi 30), Markanday, Skipp (Richards 76), Parrott, Patterson, Bennett. Substitutes (not used): Oluwayemi, A Shashoua.

Goals: Chelsea – Brown 18, 45+1.

Yellow card: Spurs – Hinds 38.

Referee: Daniel Austin.