Get to know right-back Luciano D'Auria-Henry, who has been a key cog in our Under-18s machine this season.
DOB: 11/11/2002
Place of Birth: Ealing, London
Position: Wing-back
Height: 174cm
Weight: 72kg
Boots: Nike Phantom
How would you describe yourself as a player?
I’m quite humble and like to keep to myself really. I do my work on the pitch and try my best to show everyone what I’m capable of.
I used to play up top so enjoyed darting forward and ultimately scoring goals. I slowly got pushed back over the years to right-back because I was good at 1v1 defending. So carrying the ball forward has always been a part of my game since I was young.
Behind the scenes, I’m still working hard to improve my final product. Once I beat a few players, making the right decision and choosing the correct option. Long passing is another aspect I’m looking to improve.
Your impressive performances have seen you step up and feature for the Under-23s, how much have you enjoyed playing at that level?
I think the step up has been really good and it’s not been too hard on me. I already know most of the boys from last year so it’s nice.
It’s definitely a lot faster at Under-23s level and more physical, as players are a bit bigger. You might get a little more time on the ball at Under-18s.
We’ve seen plenty of full/wing-backs progress from our Academy. Does this give you added belief?
Fulham seem to produce quite a few full-backs and that was one of the reasons I chose to move to this position instead of staying further up the pitch. I’ve always liked playing at right-back and feel there is a potential pathway for me.
How would you describe your footballing journey so far?
When I was younger, I found out about ‘Match Attax’ at school and my friends asked me to join a local club. I didn’t really like football back then but I went to it and, out of the blue, I was one of the best players there.
I was scoring lots of goals so went to another club, which really helped develop me further. Things fell apart and the manager left, so my dad contacted a third club. At the time, they were fourth in their league, but he thought I’d be a good asset for them. We went on and won absolutely everything. Then I got scouted for Fulham and signed while at Under-11s.
I’ve been at Fulham for about seven years now and it honestly feels like home. I’m just working extremely hard to get to the top as quick as I can.
What are your aims and objectives for the next season?
My next step is to play regularly for the Under-23s and then it’s about pushing on towards the First Team if possible. I’m going to be working on my fitness and more technical things so I’m sharp for next season and can give a good impression.
Quickfire Questions:
Favourite TV Programme: How to Get Away with Murder
Footballing Hero: Gareth Bale
Favourite Other Sport: Basketball
Favourite Food: Pasta
Favourite Musician: Gunna
Personal Ambition: To win a Premier League
Huw Jennings, Academy Director:
"Luciano is an athletic right-back who converted from a winger in his U16 year. Despite challenging injuries during both last season and this season, Luci has recovered to become a pivotal member of the U18s team. He has played a few games for the U23s and is having a strong finish to the season."
