Frenz U18 International Cup 2015 is undoubtedly one of the biggest tournaments in Asia that places a special priority on the continued development of young athletes. This year, they’ve attracted participation from some of the biggest teams in the world, including Tottenham Hotspur. There’s no denying the fact that it sometimes takes more than just talent to be able to do well under the frustrating weather conditions in this part of the world, but based on what we’ve seen in the tournament so far, Spurs have certainly had no problems with assimilation, particularly in their 5-0 victory over Frenz United Malaysia last weekend. An integral part of their set-up is Shayon Harrison and FourthOfficial.com sat down with him for a quick chat on footballing matters.
FO: How is it like being part of a huge team like Spurs?
HA: I would say that it is a massive privilege to be in Spurs and that I wouldn’t want to take the opportunity for granted. Everyone in England wants to play for Spurs, it’s such a massive opportunity.
FO: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
HA: I see myself playing for Spurs’ first team in the premier league. The Premier League is the best in the world, both in terms of competitiveness as well as having the best teams in the world. It’ll be such a dream to play in the Premier League.
FO: Who is your role model in football?
HA: Ronaldinho, definitely. He is a brilliant player, his tricks and skills. I want to be like him and play like him.
FO: How did you get into football?
HA: Passion, really. Something you can’t just turn on and off; I’ve been wanting to play football since I was young, Can’t see myself doing anything else. Also, my mom inspired me. I used to tell her that I want to play football, and she would bring me to club trainings. I got scouted from a small club in England and I’ve been playing for Spurs ever since I was 9.
FO: What is the best experience you’ve had with Spurs so far?
HA: Winning the U-18 Premier League last year. It was a tough league and the teams were incredibly competitive, so it was definitely a good feeling to be able to win the league.
FO: What is your take on the win against Frenz United Malaysia, considering that they are the home team?
HA: It was tough game as the weather was hot and initially it was hard to adapt. But we eventually adapted and we were very positive nevertheless. I got off to a good start so I definitely enjoyed the win.
FO: Who are your biggest competitors in the Frenz United International Cup?
HA: Livepool and FC Porto, as these are massive teams with fantastic youth squads.
FO: How is your training session like in England?
HA: Training is good, everyone is usually very focused during the training sessions. It’s very disciplined, and the people are nice as well.
FO: Are you guys allowed to train with the first team squad at any point?
HA: We get to play with the first team a few days a week and it’s incorporated into our development as well. It definitely is very inspiring. I look up to Harry Kane. And I want to be like him in terms of leaving an impact on the team, so I’ll have to work hard for it.
FO: What would your advice be for everyone aspiring to be footballers?
Keep going, nothing can stop you. When something pushes you down, get up and work harder.
FO: Biggest challenge of being in Spurs?
Losing games. There is a massive expectation to win games, so when things don’t go our way, it’s important to stay positive. You’d want to avoid having any misunderstandings between players and ultimately feel left out.
FO: So is feeling left out one of your biggest challenge as well?
Well, when I’m not playing well or producing well to contribute to the team, I do feel left out, so that’s when it’ll motivate myself to push harder.
FO: If not football, which particular career would you have pursued?
Well, I think I would love to be a chef as I love cooking and I love my mom’s food! Spaghetti Bolognese, I love cooking that!
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