Watford’s new Zim teenager chases EPL dream

FOR the first time in his life, exciting young forward Jimiel Chikukwa has separated from his parents to live in a new environment where he is chasing big dreams.

The pacey striker was this week signed by English Premiership side, Watford Academy, which is based in London, about 300km from his family home in Leeds.

But Chikukwa appears to be settling in well and has already scored in a Watford shirt, against both Hull City and Crewe Alexandra (2) Under-23 sides.

The 18-year-old joined the Hornets, after a successful trial period, following his departure from hometown club, Leeds United.

“I’m delighted, I’ve had to be really patient over the summer to get this done but I’m just buzzing that it’s happened now,” he said.

“I was out of contract and looking for a club, and I got the opportunity to come down to Watford.

“I’m willing to take any opportunity that comes in football because I love it, and I’m delighted the decision’s paid off.

“I’ve settled in quite well, I’m enjoying it. It’s quite far from home but all of the lads have made me feel welcome.”

Chikukwa played for Leeds, since the age of 13, but decided it was time for a new challenge.

The forward, who is gifted with both pace and physique, describes himself as a goal poacher.

Both of his goals against Crewe were from close range, demonstrating his ability to burst into the six-yard box.

“I’d say I like to run in behind. I’m one of those types of strikers, but also I’m a bit of a poacher, so those balls in and around the sixyard box, I’m usually there.

“I’m pacey, I like to get on the ball and show what I can do, I can beat a man,” he said.

Chikukwa was born on April 8, 2003, in the UK ,to Zimbabwean parents — Tawanda and Pascaria Chikukwa.

He plays as a left/right winger or central striker and has publicly stated his wish to play for Zimbabwe national teams, if the call comes through. He started playing football at a young age, and passed through the academy doors at Marton FC, Awodlley FC and Catalan, where he developed a lot.

He was scouted and invited for trials with Leeds Academy, at one of the Positive Youth Empowerment Soccer Schools organised-matches, in 2016.

PYE is the brainchild of UK-based Zimbabwean juniors coach and scout, Dyson Dzapasi.

Chikukwa had to make a choice as he was offered another trial with Sheffield Wednesday, and impressed.

However, he chose Leeds Academy and signed as an Under-15 player.

He was very impressive in the Leeds Under16, and was top goalscorer, with over 26 goals, which secured him a two-year scholarship, in 2019.

The following year, he was loaned to Carlisle United, for a month, and scored five goals.

They were ready to sign him, but he opted to return to Leeds.

His father, Tawanda, who has always been behind his fledgling career, gave a moving tribute to Leeds United, for laying the foundation.

“It is every parent’s wish to see your child excel in whatever field. I never doubted Jimiel and I always encouraged him to work hard,” said Tawanda.

“Growing up, he liked Messi and Drogba and he is in good books with Memory Mucherahohwa.

“I would tell him to be self-motivated, and always to be ready for life outside Leeds.

“When he was released by Leeds, we were not disappointed but found comfort in what Leeds had done to develop him to where is today.

“So, we thank Leeds for that. In football one should be ready to meet new challenges. Players and coaches move.

“So, I guess it was time for Jimiel to move.” The 18-year-old was among the ten second-year scholars released by the Whites in the summer, following the expiry of their contracts.

He also had a trial with second-tier side Huddersfield Town before coming to Watford.

Compatriot, Ethan Kachosa, who was also among the released scholars, has since signed a two-year professional contract at Sunderland, where he will be featuring for the Under-23 side, this season.

“As parents we have been supporting Jimiel in his career. Giving advice and encouraging him to work and stay away from trouble,’’ said Tawanda.

“It’s not an easy road and one can easily get fed up as there are many frustrations. “But, I am happy he remained focused. “Our main setback was when he was out of contract. He had to train with friends and sometimes we had to pay private coaches, who helped build his confidence, as they told him he had a bright future.

“PYE and my friend, Dyson, organised some matches for the boys, to remain fit. Coaches at Watford love him and have seen his strength, in scoring goals, and pace.

“I am happy he has found a new home where the people around him believe in him and want to see the best out of him.

“Now that he is signed, he has to work hard and I believe he will have a few games with the first team soon, if he maintains the form.’’