Hot-shot lands first professional contract...
POWERFUL front-man, Amadou Bakayoko, has become the first player from the current crop of second-year Scholars to be offered a professional contract for the 2014/15 season.The 17 year-old has scored ten League goals in just 12 games for the youth team, whilst also notching twice in three outings for the reserves.
Tall and athletic, he has made significant progress this season, much to the delight of Academy Manager, Neil Woods.
“I am really pleased for him,” he said. “He has worked extremely hard over the past 18 months and this is his reward for that.
“He started off some way behind most of the other lads, but his attitude has always been positive and he has always been eager to learn.
“His progression, particularly over the past six or seven months, has been a credit to the work he has put in.
“He knows that it’s going to be tough and that the hard work is only just starting, but he is a level-headed lad who won’t let it affect him; he’ll just continue putting the effort in and enjoying the game.
“His attitude and natural ability will give him every chance of making it in the professional game.”
Bakayoko added: “I am extremely proud to sign this professional contract and also become the first player from my age group to be given such a deal.
“I came into the youth team late, but there has been a massive difference in me both as a player and as a person since I have been here and that is credit to Neil Woods, Graham Biggs and the rest of the youth staff here.
“I know that the hard work is only just starting; I am looking forward to the challenge and I intend to keep working hard to make the most of this opportunity.
“The exciting thing about this club is that if you are good enough, your chance will come and I intend to take full advantage of it.”