Bazunu ‘one of the best keepers I’ve played with’
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LARK ROBERTSON has tipped Pompey goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu for a bright future following another outstanding performance by the 19-year-old in Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to MK Dons.
With MK Dons piling pressure on the Blues during the first half, Bazunu’s inspired form was the only thing preventing the hosts from taking the lead.
The Manchester City loanee showed his athleticism and ability to read the game to make two smart saves from Troy Parrott.
Perhaps the pick of the bunch was when he pounced to his left on the stroke of half-time to prevent Scott Twine’s goalbound effort finding the top corner.
And Pompey captain Robertson was singing his praises at full-time.
He said: ‘He’s unbelievable. Throughout the six games he’s played so far for us he’s probably been one of the best goalkeepers that I’ve played with, he’s that good.
‘Everything about him is top quality, from his composure on the ball to his shot-stopping.
‘He just gives me and (Sean) Raggett and the whole defence so much confidence. ‘We can get ahead of him and up the pitch because he plays so high as well, and with him sweeping behind us, he’s almost like a third centre-back. ‘He plays well above his age I thought, his knowledge of the game for a 19-year-old is incredible.
‘I think with the way he’s going he’s going to have a top career ahead of him.’ Following the recent international break, Bazunu’s stock has risen hugely thanks to some superb performances for the Republic of Ireland.
Arguably, the 19-year-old’s performance against Serbia last Wednesday earned his national team a point and, a week earlier, he saved a Cristiano Ronaldo penalty against Portugal.
‘It looks like he’s been playing at this level for years already. His performances for Ireland in the past three games were phenomenal, and he’s come back here with that ability,’ Robertson added.
‘Some of his saves in the first half were incredible and he plays well above his years I think.’