U18 winger Dilan Markanday is one to keep an eye on

A vital part of Tottenham’s talented U18 squad, the tricky winger is beginning to catch the eyes of supporters everywhere.

Spurs were up 2-1 in the first match ever at the New White Hart Lane. Their opponents, Southampton, played theirselves back into the match and wanted an equaliser. This was a must win game for not only the U18’s, but the entire club. A loss or draw in the opening event at Tottenham’s new home would be a massive dark cloud on the day.

However, late in the match, Markanday pounced on a rebounded shot and restored the two goal cushion. From there Spurs closed the game out and won 3-1. It was a big moment in the new history of the stadium and certainly a massive goal for the young winger.

But, that’s not the only contributions he has made this season. A key figure in the U18 team, Markanday is a playmaker and goalscorer. In 19 appearances so far in the U18 Premier League, he has bagged 11 goals, including his goal against Fulham on Saturday.

The youngster draws many comparisons to former Tottenham legend Aaron Lennon as well as Bournemouth’s Ryan Fraser, due to their short size and quick acceleration. Markanday uses his slight frame to weave in and around opposing defenses. He is mainly used on the right hand side of attack, but can also play on the left and centrally.

There is also some of Son Heung-Min in his style as well. Much like the first team’s No. 7, the U18’s likes to dribble at the defense and pick his moments to shoot. This season he has proved he can be a clinical finisher as he is one of the top scorers in the academy.

Dilan is also a dual national between England and India, a group that is very limited in its representation in football. By being at Spurs and continuing to progress, he could become one of the first British-Indian players to make it at a large club and potentially the England squad.

For now, Markanday and the rest of the U18’s need to finish their season strong and make progress in their careers. They have been beaten one this term, Tuesday, against Arsenal. While some of them are becoming more and more known with the general supporters, it is players like Markanday that need to step up and lead the squad.

And if he finishes the season how he and his teammates started it, fans will be looking with optimism at this group for years to come.