OWEN IS TOM’S LATEST PRODIGY
TYRESE Owen is aiming to become the latest Haringey Borough talent to move up the pyramid having first started playing senior football aged 17.
The 6ft 6in centre-back has impressed for the Isthmian League Premier side since joining last summer.
Owen, 22, was at National League South club Hemel Hempstead but dropped down a level to find regular game time and was enticed by boss Tom Loizou.
“That’s one of the reasons why I signed when I spoke to Tom,” Owen told The NLP. “He’s developed players and pushed them on, he’s worked with the likes of Ledley King. It was good to hear those things. If I develop at this level and push on then it’s a win-win.”
Loizou has seen the likes of Coby Rowe join Sutton United, Femi Akinwade to Braintree and trio Joel Nouble,
Michael O’Donoghue and Tosin Olufemi sign for Concord Rangers in recent seasons.
Owen has gained experience in Non-League since starting out at Carshalton Athletic and then Potters Bar Town before signing a professional contract at Swedish club Ytterhogdals IK.
A move abroad and away from home at 18 was a big change but provided a value experience.
“For the whole year I just cooked pasta and rice!” laughed Owen. “Of course it was different being away from home and the team is located in a very rural area, the closest town was maybe an hour and a half away.
“It was tough but my main aim was to get my head down and train – no distractions.
“The majority of kids look to go into an academy but I got the advice to go into NonLeague, that there’s a route there.
“The football was quite new because it was more direct, bodies on the line, playing for points. The big difference between Swedish football and English football is everything there is played on the ground.
“I’ve seen a massive improvement from going in at 17 to now. It’s really helped me.”
Owen can also play in midfield and is hoping to keep learning and improving in the remainder of the season.
“We had a strong start but fell off,” he said. “We’re coming back into things at the minute and looking to finish the season strong.
“On a personal note, I can’t complain. I’ve done everything I need to do defensively and on the ball. It’s been a positive season for me.”