Nottingham Forest teenager Zach Abbott has been named among the best young talents at Premier League clubs.
Each year The Guardian pick out a youngster from each top-flight side as one to watch, selecting from first-year scholars - in this case, those born between September 1 2005 and August 31 2006. And Abbott has been highlighted as the Reds player to keep an eye on.
The highly-regarded defender made his first senior appearance earlier this season, coming off the bench at the age of 16 in Forest’s 3-0 Carabao Cup victory at Grimsby Town. It capped what has been a memorable year for Abbott, and one which has been significant in his progress.
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Playing above his age-group, he helped make history with the Reds’ Under-18s last season. He was a key part of the side which reached the FA Youth Cup final for the first time in the club’s history, and played the full 90 minutes in front of a packed-out Old Trafford as Manchester United triumphed 3-1 to lift the trophy.
The centre-back was then involved with the first-team during pre-season as Steve Cooper’s side prepared for their return to the Premier League. He joined in training and featured in friendlies against Barnsley and Notts County.
Having caught Cooper’s eye, he then got his chance at Blundell Park, becoming the second-youngest player to make a competitive appearance in the Garibaldi. He has made a name for himself on the international stage, too, being capped by England at Under-16 level in the Montaigu Tournament back in April.
Tipped as someone with a bright future, he has taken everything in his stride so far. The Guardian highlight his “extremely disciplined” temperament and his ability in “one-on-one situations”.
Cooper said of Abbott after he featured against the Mariners: “It is a special moment for him. We always talk about players who make their debuts, and there was a real variety of players making their debuts in this one.
“Some of them were making their first ever senior appearance. Zach being one. He’ll never forget it.
“I just said to him, ‘look after that shirt, keep it, give it to somebody important’, because in some ways it will be the most important one he’ll ever have. It’s great.
“I’m pleased with all of the young lads. Zach’s only 16. We’ve been keen to get him involved.
“But we will not give opportunities unless they are deserved. The young boys did deserve them, and they took them. I’m really pleased about that.
“You know my background. I will always believe in young players. But they’ve got to work hard to get the opportunities.
“They have, and they’ve taken them. Great credit to them and their families.”
Which Forest youngsters have caught your eye? Have your say in the comments below
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