Tottenham Expert: Three U18 stars set for promotion at Hotspur Way amid recent U21 developments
Tottenham News is delighted to welcome John Wenham of Lilywhite Rose as our exclusive columnist. Each week, he’ll be giving his expert insight on the biggest talking points at Spurs…
John Wenham believes three Under-18 stars at Tottenham could be in line for a promotion amid recent developments at Under-21 level.
Spurs’ Under-21s are flying high, currently sitting at the top of Premier League 2 after winning every game in the competition so far this season.
They will return to action on Saturday 6 January after a mid-season break when they take on Bristol City Under-21s in the Premier League Cup, although could be in line for some changes in personnel over the next few weeks.
Josh Keeley, who has started a large number of the club’s games this season, will no longer be available for selection after joining up with National League side Barnet on loan (Spurs’ Official Academy X, 4 January).
In addition, Fabrizio Romano previously reported via his official X account (2 January) that Jude Soonsup-Bell could head out on loan after his impressive displays this season.
Wenham believes a few more players will head out the door this month, which would open up pathways for some of the club’s Under-18 stars to be promoted.
Speaking exclusively to Tottenham News, Wenham said: “The Under-21s will be a different side when they return to action. I think a few players will head out on loan this month, but there are plenty of talented Under-18 stars waiting to move up, the likes of Mikey Moore, Damola Ajayi and Oliver Irow all spring to mind.
“These are all good players in the level below who are ready to push up and stake their claims.
“Dane Scarlett will potentially be leading the line and he is far too good for Under-21 football, so they’ll be fine and have a more than capable focal point if Jamie Donley is one of the players who heads out on loan.
“I have just been so impressed by the progression this season. Alfie Dorrington and Donley seem to be a part of that first-team squad every week now, and yet they’re still playing for the Under-21s as well, which is important because it means they’re not missing out on any development time.
“I am pleased for them and for Wayne Burnett, who has done an outstanding job.”
In other Tottenham news, Fabio Paratici has had an influential role in negotiations for one of Spurs’ transfer targets this month.