5 YOUNG STARS TO WATCH OUT FOR IN 2021
A NEW YEAR means there will be new names hoping to become more familiar ones over the next 12 months. Sportsmail takes a look at some of the English youngsters you should be hearing more about in 2021...
MIGUEL AZEEZ (18) ARSENAL MIDFIELDER
MIKEL ARTETA has not been afraid to give Arsenal’s youngsters a chance and Azeez is expected to play more in 2021. The midfielder has worked his way to the fringes in 2020, making his debut in the Europa League against Dundalk in December. Arsenal believe the England youth international has a big future. He is comfortable on the ball, combative, technically impressive and boasts a good shot from distance.
LEWIS BATE (18) CHELSEA MIDFIELDER
CHELSEA have another central midfielder poised to roll off the Cobham conveyor belt. A short clip, from Chelsea Under 23s’ recent 6-1 hammering ring of Manchester United, showcased Bate’s best qualities as he burst away from his first opponent, threw himself into a 50-50, skipped away from another challenge with a brilliant bit of skill before moving the ball on. He has awareness, balance, bravery and quick feet.
TEDEN MENGI (18) MAN UTD DEFENDER
OF ALL the prospects at United, Mengi is the next one expected to break through. The Manchester-born centre back made his debut last season son against LASK in the Europa League. At one stage, Mengi was being considered for holding midfield due to his comfort on the ball, passing range and vision. But his nose for defensive danger, combined with his speed, have seen him settle at the back.
LOUIE BARRY (17) ASTON VILLA STRIKER
THIS teenager joined one of English football’s more exclusive clubs when, at only 16, he slipped on the red and blue of Barcelona. ‘One of the e best young players in English football,’ was Barca’s verdict after they signed him in July 2019. The forward had been at West Bromwich since the age of six and now he is back in the Midlands having joined Villa in January for £880,000. ‘I am sure he will be a hit at Villa,’ said manager Dean Smith.
RAMELLO MITCHELL (18) SOUTHAMPTON WINGER
ANOTHER goalscoring prodigy forged in the Midlands, Mitchell joins striker Che Adams, who also made his name at Birmingham, after Saints fought ght off competition for his signature in April 2019 to secure a deal worth up to £1 million. Wolves, Liverpool and Manchester United were also interested, but the prolific forward opted for Southampton, believing they offer a clearer pathway to first-team football.