The Club is delighted to announce that a total of six Academy players have signed professional contracts.
All six have made a huge impact across the Under-18s and Under-21s and will be hoping to continue their excellent development over the coming campaigns.
Centre-back Charlie Robinson was quickly called up to Steve Wigley's 21s after impressing at the age group below. He made a total of 16 appearances in a team that cruised to the PL2 Division Two title. His excellent one-on-one defending, paired with his ability to pick out an inch-perfect pass, made him a key asset.
Academy Director, Mike Cave added: "Charlie had a standout season, performing extremely well for both competitive teams. A technical and physical defender, he personifies many of the characteristics the Academy and Club value as a young man and player."
Like Charlie, midfielder George Okkas also enjoyed a tremendous breakthrough season. With 23 Under-18 appearances under his belt, the Cypriot youth international was a major cog in Ali Melloul's machine last season.
Often the engine in the middle, George became a regular and was often on the ball, dictating play for his team. He will be stepping up to the Under-21s for the 2022/23 season.
"George performed very well last season, bringing his technical and tactical strengths to the centre of midfield," said Mike. "The signing of his professional contract is recognition of both his commitment to the Club and his continued development and performances."
Striker Olly Sanderson will also be stepping up an age group, after a prolific season. The 18-year-old smashed in 15 goals and grabbed five assists in just 23 appearances and will be eager to record similar numbers against older opposition.
Mike continued: "Olly finished last season as the Under-18s' top goal scorer, and his relentless hard-work on and off the pitch has made him a role model to players across the programme. This season will see Olly attack his next challenge as he looks to make a similar impact for the Under-21s."
Delano McCoy-Splatt was another who played a big part for our Under-18s. After signing a scholarship deal last Summer, the midfielder went on to make 23 appearances and scored a goal in the process.
The youngster combines great skill with even better vision to help build attacks for his side from the middle of the pitch. He'll be one of the more experienced players under Ali, so will likely become a key figure for the younger scholars.
"Delano will be returning this Summer from a period away representing his country at the CONCAF Under-20 Championships," said Mike. "Following a very good season for the Under-18s, his capabilities to impact games both with and without the ball will continue to see him be an instrumental figure at the heart of midfield."
Attacker Imani Lanquedoc was another who signed a professional contract after a successful season. The 18-year-old, who was utilised mainly on the wing but also in midfield, scored five and assisted four in his 23 appearances.
"Imani’s physical and technical skill has seen him utilised in a variety of positions across both age groups last season. This flexibility and professionalism holds him in good stead as he signs his professional contract and drives on to establish himself as key contributor for Steve Wigley's side this season."
Like Charlie Robinson and Delano McCoy-Splatt, Terrell Works also came up as a scholar prior to last season. He was implemented both out wide and as a number nine and became more and more involved as the season progressed. He scored two and assisted three, with one excellent finish coming against Brighton at Motspur Park.
Mike went on to say: "Terrell has been part of the Academy from an early age and last season began to fulfil his potential as an outstanding technician and attacking midfielder. I’m confident we will see many goals and assists from him in the coming seasons for the Under-18s and beyond."
