The young players to look out for in North Queensland
As relative newcomers to the Hyundai A-League North Queensland Fury don-t yet have a National Youth League team competing in the competition but despite this, their focus on young players is stronger than most of the other teams in Australia-s premier football competition.
In future there may be a National Youth side competing with the others but for now the Fury are relying in part on a strong North Queensland local development system, which despite being in its infancy, has already produced several bright prospects and one first team squad player.
Recently signed by the Fury until the end of the season, Sipi offers the coaching staff versatility, being able to play at right-back or as part of the midfield.
Another young player that-s a first team regular is Jack Hingert. Now in his second season, this London born Victorian has also shown his versatility, proving himself at home as either a right-back or attacking wing back. His main attributes are speed and stamina. He always finishes top of the Fury squad in any running drills. At 20, Jack is a very tough competitor who shows a lot of composure on the ball.
Possibly the most impressive Fury player to keep an eye on for future national teams is Chris Payne. Currently part of the Olyroos squad looking to make a big impact in the London 2012 Olympics, his awareness for setting up goals and his talent in front of goal make him stand out amongst his peers.
At 20-years of age, Payne joined the Fury from Sydney FC at the start of this season and his performances in August earned him a nomination for NAB Young Footballer of the Year.
The Queensland state competition has also been productive for the Fury-s young guns, and former Brisbane Strikers star Brad McDonald-s defensive midfield performances have seen him become an integral part of Fury-s rearguard. At just 20, Brad has a very good left foot and is a tireless worker and whether in attack or defence, he shows real composure when playing his football.
Aside from the youngsters getting a run in the first team, messes Malik and Usai also deserve a mention. Another product of the Brisbane Strikers setup Sebastian Usai was originally brought into the squad as injury cover. At 20, he has potential to be a top-class ‘keeper with all the physical attributes required by top keepers at the highest level.
His technique is spot-on and if he continues to develop the way he has been, he-ll certainly be one to watch in the future.
20 year-old Osama Malik is another who is looking to make a name for himself this season.
With two good feet, excellent passing ability and strength in the air, he has all necessary facets needed to put himself into the manager-s thoughts during this campaign. Malik joined the Fury from Adelaide United last season.
Despite their lack of presence in the country-s premier youth competition, the North Queensland squad definitely has a mix of local and nationwide youth talent and you-d go well to find another team in the Hyundai A-League who would match them for quality in this department. This season is sure to see a couple of them prove themselves good enough to play week in week out in the senior competition.
