JARROD BOWEN
AGE: 20 CLUB: Hull City POSITION: Wide forward VALUE: £4.5m 2016-17 APPS: 10 GOALS: 6
WHAT HAS HE GOT?
THIS bright wide man has been a patient developer. Signed from Hereford, he has observed the trials and tribulations at Hull City before getting his chance. Destabilised by relegation and a host of leavers, new manager Leonid Slutsky has given a chance to Bowen (below) and he has grasped it. He takes the ball well in his stride and can accelerate away from his defender, even if he has not yet the strength to hold his speed over longer distances. It is the vital first yards and body movement that are the most important to him and he also shows neat control and is always looking to receive. He has a genuine enthusiasm for the game. When I saw him, his team were overwhelmed, but he constantly positioned himself to collect the ball. I was impressed that when possession was lost by a colleague he showed immediate defensive diligence and got back into a position to receive should the ball be regained. What I also liked is his eye for a chance. He is fully aware of the importance of getting into scoring positions when play is building down the opposite flank. Twice on this occasion his timing got him on the inside of his opponent in the 18-yard box. His inswinging corners have pace and direction and I like that he shoots early. The best strikers are not afraid to miss.
WHAT DOES HE NEED?
AS BOWEN is very much a left-footed player, his coaches will have to decide whether to improve his right-footed swinging cross or concentrate on improving his strength on the other side. Also, he can fly bravely into the six-yard box to head but must be aware this can result in injury. He will learn not to over-run the ball and risk being dispossessed. He must realise that ignoring the obvious pass can be detrimental to the team and he needs to get his head up early. But his qualities are shining through now and, in a transitional season for the club, he could be a nice bonus. I expect him to finish the season with double figures — a good return.