JEVANI SWEEPS HIS WAY TO U’S ACCLAIM
SHAUN Derry has downplayed the hype surrounding in-form Cambridge striker Jevani Brown, despite his excellent form over the Christmas period.
The 23-year-old forward joined the U’s from St Neots Town over the summer and looks to have found his feet over the festive period, putting in a man-of-the-match performance against Barnet, as well as scoring against Notts County and Newport.
And, while Derry is clearly an admirer of Brown’s talents, the U’s boss insists there’s still plenty of work to be done.
“My own opinion is he will go on to play at a higher level – without a doubt,” said Derry.
“But he’s got to be a good pro and do his work, do his extras and make sure his diet’s right – all those things which people don’t judge you on when it’s a Saturday afternoon.
“But he does listen, which is great.
“You look at young players and wonder whether they’re coachable, and Jevani is. To be coachable and score and have a finish like that gives him a hell of a chance.”
The Letchworth-born forward joined Cambridge after a long spell in NonLeague football, playing for the likes of Barton Rovers, Arlesey Town and St Neots.
It was his form at St Neots last season, where he scored 19 goals in as many games for the Southern League side, that earned Brown the chance to move into full-time football.
“We’re helping him because he’s not been a professional,” Derry added. “With the greatest of respect, he’s been at St Neots and he’s swept roads. That’s been his background.
“It’s a case of slowly but surely. He’s not going to go from sweeping the road one week to playing for Manchester United the next, is he? He’s got to be on that journey, and he’s definitely on one at the moment.”