JOE GELHARDT

AGE: 17 CLUB: WIGAN ATHLETIC POSITION: STRIKER VALUE: £2M

WHAT HAS HE GOT?

WIGAN have an outstanding, Liverpool-born forward in their attractive youth team. They have only just exited the FA Youth Cup, losing 2-1 at Manchester United. Gelhardt is a teenage forward. He is left-footed and technically good, bringing his colleagues into the game with an awareness and maturity beyond his years. When I watched him, he showed he was not fazed by more senior, experienced opponents. Playing up front as the lead man, he seemed happy to come short and link the play with a good appreciation of when to pass. He saw the picture quickly and played his passes at a nice pace so that any receiver could accept the ball comfortably. I particularly like the way he is able to shield the ball, swivel and manoeuvre around the box to find space for a clean strike. He showed enough confidence and singlemindedness, and twice tried good shots on the turn as he twisted away from his marker. His movement to make himself available when his team were under pressure was intelligent. Always on the right of the field for an ‘out’ ball when his team were defending, he was available for the longer forward pass, too. Importantly, he also showed he has a nose for goal.

WHAT DOES HE NEED?

WITH the ball he has adequate speed but he may eventually need another yard of pace. He moves down the flank in possession with his broad frame and is able to shake off attentive markers. He is about 5ft 9in and at times I saw shades of Wayne Rooney. Overall, it was his maturity in leading the line that convinced me. Already on the fringes of a re-organised Wigan side, he has a brilliant and savvy mentor in the background. Joe Royle — on the board at Wigan — will give him wise advice when needed.