On the back of a very successful season for Fulham's Under-16 side in which they have dominated the league with exciting, attacking football, the coaching staff have had the very difficult proposition of selecting the boys who will be offered scholarships next season. But having made their decisions, Under-16s Coach, Steve Head, gives us the lowdown on those who have been selected to make the next step en route to the First Team…
James Dunn
DOB: 07.12.91
Position: Goalkeeper
Signed for FFC: 16.05.07
SH: James made the move to Fulham midway through last season from London rivals Millwall and he has made a good impression since his arrival. He is an athletic and agile goalkeeper and has been praised for his speed off his line and his shot stopping ability during games this season. One claim to fame for Dunn is that he scored directly from a goal-kick on one occasion this season.
Marcus Bettinelli
DOB: 24.05.92
Position: Goalkeeper
Signed for FFC: 05.07.06
SH: The other player to have shared goalkeeping duties this season is Marcus Bettinelli who joined as an Under-14 from Crystal Palace. He has continually developed over the last two seasons, but has been hampered slightly by injuries this year. The full-time scholars programme will benefit Marcus massively as we'll be able to work on honing his skills on a more regular basis, but he has the attributes to be a very good keeper.
Keanu Marsh-Brown
DOB: 13.08.92
Position: Defender
Signed for FFC: 04.02.06
SH: Keanu joined us as an Under-12, having spent time on Arsenal's books. He's developed excellently over the last four years and we're absolutely delighted at how well he's applied himself and listened to the advice and coaching of the staff at Fulham. He is now an England international at Under-15 level, has great technical ability, and is very attack-minded. There is room to work on the defensive side of his game, but he understands that and is more than willing to learn. He is excellent going forward, has a good cross and has got on the score sheet a couple of times this season.
Courtney Harris
DOB: 07.09.91
Position: Midfield
Signed for FFC: 11.08.00
SH: Courtney is a right-sided midfield player, and another naturally attack-minded individual. A great range of passing and a very good understanding of the game, has allowed him to comfortably slot into a very effective either three or four-man midfield this term. We'll continue working on the defensive side of his game too when he commences his scholarship. Courtney has played for the Under-18s already this season, and managed to get his name on the score sheet.
Reece Jones
DOB: 22.07.92
Position: Midfield
Signed for FFC: 30.05.03
SH: A Welsh schoolboy international who represented his country in the recent Victory Shield tournament, Reece has been the captain of Fulham's Under-16 side this season. Having signed in the Spring of 2003, Reece has developed into a strong and determined midfield player. A strong tackle and never-say-die attitude has made him an ideal skipper. His presence in the team brings out the best in others because of his attitude and application.
Alex Smith
DOB: 31.10.91
Position: Midfield
Signed for FFC: 15.11.03
SH: A natural left-sided midfield player, and an extremely gifted footballer who has managed to score upwards of 15 goals from his position in midfield this season. Alex will develop physically in the coming seasons and that will only add to his game. He is very light on his feet and has the ability to play a range of passes. For all his talent he is an extremely hardworking player which is testament to him. He can play at left-back when called upon, but he is better in a more attacking position. Another to have featured this season for Gary Brazil's Under-18 side.