The English Premier League season never fails to produce a new youngster who grabs the headlines and with the start of 2016-17 just a few days away, Outside90’s Liam Warren takes a look at the top five names that will be looking to make an impact at the first team level.
Ola Aina
Ola Aina is a versatile defender from Chelsea who was a part of the dominant development squad that has won two UEFA Youth League titles and two FA Youth Cups during his time in the team. In preseason so far he has shown promise, playing in the fullback role that has been left vacant by Branislav Ivanovic’s injury and the 19-year-old has the ability to make the position his own.
Sheyi Ojo
Upon returning from France after taking part in the English under-19 campaign, Sheyi Ojo has shown an eagerness during preseason matches in an attempt to break into the Liverpool first team. With Jordan Ibe sold to Bournemouth there is a gap on the left-side of the field and if Klopp is willing to give Ojo the chance, he has the quality to succeed
Sullay KaiKai
The Crystal Palace midfielder has been around the club for a while now and deserves a chance to show his worth for the Eagles. Over the last two seasons he has spent time at Cambridge United in League Two – where he won the club’s Young Player of the Year award – and at League One side Shrewsbury, where he finished as top scorer. His speed is something that will help Alan Pardew as Palace looks to play counter-attacking football.
Timothy Fosu-Mensah
The arrival of Jose Mourinho to Manchester United could prove very beneficial to Timothy Fosu-Mensah. The ‘Special One’ has been known to look favourably on players that can play several different roles and in Fosu-Mensah, he has another young player that fits that description. He could prove a valuable member to the Red Devils, showing resilience and intelligence in both attack and defence.
Tosin Adarabioyo
Given Manchester City’s struggle to find a top quality defender and their issues at the back in general last season, Tosin Adarabioyo is coming along at the right time. He has shown that his reading of the game and tackles are that of a player with much more first team experience. Given his skills are already at a high level, learning from a manager of the quality of Guardiola could see the 18-year-old develop into a top Premier League defender.
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