HARVEY WHITE

CLUB: TOTTENHAM POSITION: CENTRAL MIDFIELD AGE: 17 VALUE: £700,000

WHAT HAS HE GOT?

Watching Tottenham’s Under 18 side play the first game in the club’s new stadium, I wondered if any of the players on view would eventually progress to play there as a first-teamer. So much will depend on personal drive, ability, an injury-free run and, of course, luck. One of these aspirants was a left-footed midfield player Harvey White who showed a valuable quality — his touch is sure enough to give him time on the ball. Gathering any pass instantly, he gained that precious second to give him an advantage to play the next ball quickly. He is also sensible enough to play safe when he needs to. Spotting an ascendency gained by his outside left, he fed him regularly with swift early passes from centre field. This actually led to the first goal being scored at the new ground. When confronted by an opponent he had the poise and confidence to turn out and shield the ball. Because of his confidence on the ball and ability to keep it safe, colleagues clearly trust him. They are happy to play it to him even when he is tightly marked. I enjoyed the way that he linked the play as the hub of the team and always looked to take a return after making a pass.

WHAT DOES HE NEED?

He is more of a creator than a defensive-minded midfielder but he appeared to do his work and have team responsibility. He does not look an exceptionally quick driver from midfield and only made a couple of penetrative forward runs. He will be coached to appreciate the need to get into goalscoring positions as his career progresses. After tucking away a penalty, one well-timed powerful run and shot was too hot for the opposition goalkeeper to hold, leading to the third goal. He is potentially an accomplished player. At Tottenham he will be given every chance to flourish. Still FA Youth Cup age, he has earned a place in England age-group teams. I shall monitor his progress closely.