Nile John: Things to know about the Tottenham youngster
By Mitch Wilks
For all of the pitfalls of Jose Mourinho's reign as Tottenham manager thus far, one thing he has been good for is giving their youngsters the opportunity to stake their claim.
And for convincing people that they were in the Premier League title race for a few weeks.
As Spurs ran riot over Wolfsberger AC to book their place in the Europa League round of 16, Mourinho used the tie to give a debut to the youth team stars he felt deserved it. Nile John was one of three academy stars given a runout at home to Wolfsberger, coming on in the 81st minute to replace Moussa Sissoko.
Here is all you need to know about one of Spurs' talented young debutants.
1. He's Spurs through and through
Mourinho said it himself following the victory against Wolfsberger, noting that John has been at the club since he was seven years old and described him making his debut as 'fantastic'.
John was born and raised in Shepherd's Bush and has exclusively played for Tottenham throughout his academy career. In a time where the club perhaps lacks a little bit of identity and direction, it's players like him who can provide a blueprint for the future.
2. Mourinho's ideal midfielder
John is a technical player who largely operates in the attacking third, with a sharp turn of pace and a solid technical skillset for his age.
The 17-year-old is also capable of dropping deeper and playing anywhere in a midfield three thanks to his ability to move the ball quickly and see a pass.
At 5"8, size isn't quite on his side as Mourinho would like, but his other attributes are appealing.
3. An England youth regular
As well as rising through the ranks at Tottenham, John is already in the national team setup with England.
He's represented the young Lions at Under-15, 16 and 17 level thus far. Probably a bit too early to be giving Gareth Southgate a nudge to get him on the plane, though.
4. Football Manager 2021 rating
John hasn't actually managed to make it to FIFA 21 quite yet, although making his senior debut will likely help that cause.
He is on Football Manager, though - the grown up, slightly more interesting older brother to FIFA career mode.
His physical stats are outstanding for his young age, boasting 17 natural fitness, 14 pace and 15 acceleration. With some in-depth training, he could be the star of your save.
5. Breaking down age barriers
When youth players are thrust into the first team, it's easy to forget just how young they are with the expectation and just how much of an achievement it is to make a debut.
John is 17. Seventeen. I was working in Toys R Us at 17 and he's being called upon by Jose Mourinho.
Not only has he managed to break into the first team so young, but the midfielder is also regularly impressing in age groups above him at youth level, having already been drafted into the Under-23s three times for the Premier League 2 this season.
6. Two first names
Quite simply, Nile John is one of those instances where his surname is also a first name.
Thierry Henry, Roberto Carlos, Gareth Barry - all the greatest players possess two first names.
He's going to the top.
7. Shares a birthday with stars
Not all stars of the same industry, but Nile John is in good company on his birthday of 6th March.
John celebrates his birthday on the same day as musician Tyler, the Creator and basketball royalty Shaquille O'Neal. Oh, and Tim Howard; everyone's favourite bearded goalkeeper.