EPL's Five Youngsters To Watch: Half-Term Report

On the eve of the 2008-09 Premiership season, Alex Dimond picked a few young players who he believed were all set to make the breakthrough with their respective clubs, and make everyone sit up and take notice.

Now at the half-way point in the season, it is time to review how the players mentioned have got on so far…

1. Fran Merida (Arsenal)

What was said then: “Arsenal’s big summer signing so far, Samir Nasri, will no doubt have a great future in North London. However, as he settles into the club, expect Merida to initially share the playing time to take the weight of the Frenchman’s shoulders. No doubt the Spaniard will take full advantage.”

The story so far: Merida has been unable to progress to the first team, with the likes of Aaron Ramsey seemingly being preferred when cover is required for the team’s established stars. Once again limited only to Carling Cup appearances, the 18-year-old must be getting frustrated with the lack of opportunities he is getting at the Emirates.

Arsene Wenger has recently reiterated his admiration of Merida’s talents—but when will the Spaniard get to show them off?

Grade: D-. Still waiting for his chance, with no end in sight.

2. Damien Plessis (Liverpool)

What was said: “Currently behind Mascherano and Lucas Leiva in the Liverpool pecking order, expect Plessis to appear frequently at Anfield this season. With the ability to make himself time on the ball and a good passing range, he can be employed further forward than his positional rivals, perhaps helping him get the nod if some of the more attacking midfielders get injured.”

The story so far: Again, not so good. After playing 45 minutes in Liverpool’s opening league fixture with Sunderland, the 20-year-old also played in both of the club’s Champions League qualifiers against Standard Liege. Since then, however, the Frenchman has been limited to Carling Cup appearances—although he did score a well taken goal in a 4-2 defeat against Tottenham.

But with Mascherano and Lucas ahead of him, and the club performing so well in the league, chances have been understandably limited for the talented young midfielder.

Grade: C-. Maybe next year.

3. Maynor Figueroa (Wigan Athletic)

What was said: ”With 53 international caps for Honduras, Figueroa has international pedigree. With expert guidance from Steve Bruce (a none too shabby defender himself), this season he could prove he has Premiership pedigree too.”

The story so far: Impressive stuff. The 25-year-old Honduran has started every one of Wigan’s games so far this season, with Steve Bruce only seeing fit to substitute his left-back on two occasions.

Solid on the ball and in the tackle, Figueroa has come on leaps and bounds already this term—so much so that Steve Bruce was more than happy to make his loan move permanent earlier this move. Well on the way to proving he is of Premiership pedigree.

Grade: B+. Achieving as much, if not more than was expected of him.

4. Curtis Davies (Aston Villa)

What was said: “Davies has been regarded as an outstanding prospect ever since he first broke into the Luton Town team. Settled in and fully fit, Davies should finally deliver on his promise and even force his way into Fabio Capello’s England squad.”

The story so far: Davies has played in all but two of Villa’s Premiership games this season, and has been frequently involved in the club’s UEFA Cup campaign to boot. Under stiff competition from the likes of Carlos Cuellar and Zat Knight, the 23-year-old’s form has forced Martin O’Neill to keep him in the centre of a strong Villa defence.

What is more, Davies performances have caught the attention of England manager Fabio Capello, who named Davies in his squad for November’s friendly against Germany.

Grade: A-. No longer the pub player.

5. Daniel Sturridge (Manchester City)

What was said: “While the arrival of Brazilian Jo (and possibly Ronaldinho?) has pushed Sturridge down the pecking order, don’t be surprised if the determined goal-getter gets more than a few Premiership appearances this term—and more than a few goals.”

The story so far: Although Sturridge has only started a couple of Premiership games, the 19-year-old has nevertheless notched an impressive three goals and three assists (more than the £14m Jo) from the 312 minutes on the pitch he has so far accrued.

Saying he has saved Mark Hughes’ job in recent weeks might be overstating it, but he has been a nice surprise in an otherwise disappointing start for the club.

Grade: B+. Has shown the hunger to be a big success.



A Few Other Names That Were Considered:

Danny Guthrie (Newcastle)

What was said: “Expect the hard working midfielder to fit in perfectly to a side that desperately needs his grit.”

Story so far: Has made regular appearances in an inconsistent Newcastle side. Attracted headlines this season for the wrong reasons, by breaking the leg of Hull’s Craig Fagan with an ill-advised kick. Still developing. B.

Gary Cahill (Bolton)

What was said: “Always alert, expect the former Villa man to show why Megson was willing to pay £5m for his services.”

Story so far: Integral to Gary Megson’s defence, alongside Greitar Steinsson and Andy O’Brien. Together, the three have made Bolton a formidable side to break down. Shown plenty to build on. B+.

Adam Johnson (Middlesbrough)

What was said: “Another on the endless production line of Teeside talent, Johnson has the potential to be a right-sided Stuart Downing.”

The story so far: Generally limited to substitute appearances for Boro, Johnson has nevertheless acquitted himself well when called upon. Somewhat surprisingly, has been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid. On the up. C+.

Jack Rodwell (Everton)

What was said: “If he can break into a talented Everton defence, Rodwell should deliver on the potential he has shown at youth level.”

The story so far: Still just an underweight 17-year-old, Rodwell started the season well and played every minute of Everton’s first three games. Since then chances have been more limited, but David Moyes has seen enough to convince him the youngster will go far in the game. Looks ready to deliver on potential. C+.