ViToMiNs' Player To Watch Thread 2010

Stunbel

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I've another name for you Vitomins, you better check him out. :)
Name: Cenk Gönen
Team: Besiktas
Shirt Number: 99
Nationality: Turkish
Position: Goalkeeper
Age: 22

As Rüstü is kinda old now, Hakan Arikan became our main Goalkeeper, however, we also transferred Cenk Gönen because of Rüstü's recommendation. Shortly after season started, both Rüstü and Hakan injured and we could have the chance to watch Cenk Gönen. He made his debut against Villareal, as you can see on below video. He played 7 games so far and showed an extraordinary performance, we are fully confident that our goal line will be secure for the next 15 years because of him. However, Hakan Arikan was Rüstü's sub for years long so our manager Bernd Schuster doesn't wanna lose him with subbing him again, but Hakan is playing awfully, conceding stupid goals and cost us points every single game. Even last game at Saturday, some of fans "boo"'d him, others backed him up asap though... But Schuster still keeps Hakan as main GK so that he won't lose his self-confidence, but we will see Cenk Gönen as our main Goalkeeper soon enough, as nearly everyone wants it.

Anyway, here you can watch him in 7 games he played so far. As he played so few games, this video is definitely not a "best of", it just shows every game he played in.

[youtube]6dMCsLN1_D8&feature=player_embedded#![/youtube]
 

Dylan

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Hahaha conclusive prove. Mou's word is final!
 

Nyall

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Okay a bunch of talented youngsters which I've never heard of... WTF bro?! Why haven't you gone to show these players to Moratti.
 

vitomins

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Okay a bunch of talented youngsters which I've never heard of... WTF bro?! Why haven't you gone to show these players to Moratti.


I called up Moratti a few months ago, he said 5 for $1 or no deal...
 

vitomins

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isco


08/12/10 - Francisco Roman Alarcon Suarez (Isco)

Team:Valencia (Spain)
Shirt Number: 26
Nationality: Spain
Position: Attacking Midfielder (C)
Secondary: Attacking Midfielder (L,R), Left Forward, Center Forward, Right Forward
Age: 18
Height: 1.77 m / 5.81 ft
Weight: 75 kg / 165 lbs


Report: Valencia's Ready-Made Replacement for David Silva

With David Villa and David Silva having left Valencia this summer, you could be forgiven for thinking that 'Los Che' is bereft of talent. However, the stage is set for the next big star to come out of Valencia's famous youth system. Francisco Roman Alarcon Suarez, or simply Isco , is still an unfamiliar name to most fans and pundits in Europe, yet he has the makings of a true star and he is set for a truly bright future in the game.

Although yet to make his senior debut, the 18-year-old attacker has been excellent so far in Valencia's pre-season games. Isco has impressed coach Unai Emery so much this summer that the Valencia boss has insisted that he train only with the first team, making Isco very much part of his squad. Although there is no guarantee that Isco will be a first team regular this coming season and he may be used in bursts, this campaign could well see him make a big impression not only at Valencia's Mestalla stadium, but on the entire Primera Liga.

Emery recently compared Isco to Manchester City's new superstar David Silva and he is far from the first to do so. It may take some time for Isco to reach the same heights as World Cup winner Silva, but most agree that he has the potential to do so. And where better to progress than Silva's former club Valencia?

Strengths

So what makes Isco such a unique talent among Spain's seemingly never ending pool of talented footballers?

The answer is that Isco is already, even at his young age close to being the complete player. He is naturally a playmaking attacking midfielder and boasts great technique with the ball at his feet. He's excellent at picking out passes, threading the ball dangerously through the opposition defence. Equally, Isco 's diminutive stature means that his low centre of gravity, combined with natural pace make him a devastating dribbler. Although naturally right-footed, he has a wicked shot with either foot.

However, Isco is certainly no fancy dan and does not shy away from the physical aspects of the game. He is both strong and aggressive and very difficult to knock off the ball. For such a naturally attacking player, Isco has very good defensive awareness. These qualities were particularly evident in Valencia's battling 2-1 pre-season victory over German side Hannover.

Another huge bonus is Isco 's versatility. He is more than capable of being deployed on the wing if necessary and also excels as a supporting striker. Isco fits perfectly into a formation where he plays off a single front man in what might be called the 'David Silva role'.

His versatility could be crucial this season. Throughout pre-season, Valencia coach Emery has been able to introduce Isco in order to make an instant impact, changing his formation with great effect from playing three attackers to just a lone striker.

Weaknesses

Until Isco came knocking on Valencia's first-team door, football was a little too easy for him. At the 2009 Under-17 World Cup, he was outstanding, scoring three goals in Spain's number ten shirt. Isco was able to glide past players with ease and naturally retain possession. However, now that he has stepped up a level, he is allowed less time on the ball and must release it more readily. Isco still has some work to do to improve his decision-making, so as not to be easily caught in possession. This however, should come with playing time and experience.

Background and History

Isco grew up in the village of Benalmadena, near Malaga. He naturally grew up playing for his village team and starred in the various youth representative sides in his region of Andalusia. It wasn't long before Malaga came calling and by 2006, aged only 14-years-old, Isco left home to join Valencia.

Understandably, the move was not easy for the teenager, who recalls "at first I wanted to leave, I didn't think I could last the distance. I was about to leave, but my mother told me to be strong and I stayed a little longer. It was my dream and I had to fight for it, so I stayed."

Playing at the various levels of Valencia's academy, Isco impressed greatly. He was selected to represent Spain at the 2009 Under-17 World Cup where he made his mark on the international scene. His three goals were instrumental in securing third place for Spain. Isco 's strike against Colombia, a shot from just inside the box, fifteen minutes from time, sealed the bronze medal for his team.

At the end of the tournament, Isco gave a hint of his ambition, commenting "My footballing career has only just started, so I have many dreams to fulfil. I just hope things will keep going as well as they are now."

Mentality

Isco is renowned as a level-headed character, who left his family behind to pursue his dream and is totally dedicated to achieving it. Coaches at Valencia comment on his professionalism and mature approach to the game.

In a recent interview, Isco showed what a good head he has on his shoulders. Summarizing his outlook, he said, "without humility you cannot get anywhere."

Current Situation

Valencia are a club in debt, who have been forced to offload their stars in order to simply carry on playing football. However, with the likes of Isco in their ranks, the future is not all negative at the Mestalla. Given his undoubted talent combined with a down to earth approach to the game, do not be surprised if the youngster from Benalmadena follows in the footsteps of Villa and in particular Silva and becomes a major name on the world stage.


[youtube]8KJKTB7AKJ0[/youtube]
 

vitomins

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jakob-jantscher


08/19/10 - Jakob Jantscher

Team: RB Salzburg (Austria)
Shirt Number: 15
Nationality: Austria
Position: Attacking Midfielder (L)
Secondary: Right Defender, Midfielder (L,C,R), Attacking Midfielder (C,R), Left Forward, Right Forward
Age: 21
Height: 1.79 m / 5.87 ft
Weight: 68 kg / 149 lbs


Report: Giving Wings to Red Bull

A new kind of music is coming out of Salzburg - the city of Mozart.

But it isn't classical stuff, it's the roar of the Red Bull crowd as their newest talent, Jakob Jantscher, bangs in another goal or produces another stunning move from his repertoire of silky skills.

Last season, Jantscher was still playing for SK Sturm Graz . He had a wonderful campaign and together with Daniel Beichler, he led Sturm to fourth place in the Austria n Bundesliga by scoring seven goals and adding 13 assists in 33 league games.

His fantastic form last season sparked interest from teams across Europe, especially in Germany, with VfB Stuttgart, Borussia Monchengladbach and Werder Bremen making enquiries about him.

But eventually, Red Bull won his services, signing him for a million euros.

He signed on a four-year contract, which appears to have been a shrewd piece of business for Salzburg as it looks like they could now sell him for a lot more.

Jantscher was called up to the Austria national team in June 2009 when he was only 20. Since then, he has won seven caps for his country and scored against World champions Spain in a friendly.

Strengths

Jantscher is a versatile midfield man. He can play as a winger on both flanks, from where he loves to cut inside, and he can also be employed as a playmaker.

Naturally two-footed, Jantscher's swift movement and dribbling skills are truly outstanding.

Jantscher is a menace both inside and outside the box. He can shoot from distance or dribble through the defence, beating men with ease. And when in front of goal, he looks like a natural striker with magnificent timing and graceful finishing.

Weaknesses

Jantscher 's main weakness has long been on his defensive side, although that aspect of his game is certainly improving.

He is still a tad weak off the ball and needs to toughen that side to his game further.

When his side are on the back foot, Jantscher's team play should be better, and he should get back more to help clear the danger and take the pressure off the defenders.

But in Huub Stevens, Jantscher couldn't have wished for a better coach to improve his work-rate and solve his defensive frailties. Stevens is instilling steel into Saltzburg and no one is exempt from hard work under his leadership.

Background and history

Jantscher started his football career when he was only six years old playing for SC Unterpremstätten , before moving to LUV Graz at the age of 10.

When he was 13, and his parents began to recognize his special talent, he moved to Sturm Graz, the biggest club in the city.

Jantscher played at all youth levels and eventually moved up to the reserves, and since the age of 15 he also began to represent Austria 's national youth teams.

In season 2007/2008, when Jantscher was only 18, he started to appear for Sturm Graz's first team and finished that season with two goals from 12 games - not a bad return for such a youngster.

The following season he scored five in 29 appearances, but Jantscher's game moved on to a whole new level last term.

Although every football fan In Austria already knew how talented Jantscher was, the partnership he forged with Daniel Beichler (who had joined the club from Hertha BSC Berlin) was truly amazing, displaying a seemingly telepathic understanding with the 21-year-old.

But after a great season, it was time for the two Sturm Graz stars to move on. Beichler moved to Berlin and Jantscher joined Austria n titleholders RB Salzburg .

Mentality

Jantscher is still young and needs to improve his concentration and decision-making.

But he is a good professional who works hard in training on honing his skills and eliminating the flaws in his game.

Jantscher is not a high-maintenance player and doesn't have disciplinary issues.

You won’t see him getting into bust-ups with teammate or coaches, or having problems off the field.

Current situation

This season Jantscher is absolutely on fire.

Due to an injury to Salzburg left-back Andreas Ulmer, left midfielder Dusan Svento moved back to replace him, with Jantscher being awarded a first-team spot.

And he has grabbed the opportunity with both hands, opening the campaign with four goals in eight games.

A move from Red Bull seems to be on the horizon and Jantscher could well soon be gracing a higher level European side with his dazzling skills.


[youtube]sHw0u7tQfVw[/youtube]
 

vitomins

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gabriel-torje


08/26/10 - Gabriel Torje

Team: Dinamo Bucharest (Romania)
Shirt Number: 22
Nationality: Romania
Position: Attacking Midfielder (R)
Secondary: Attacking Midfielder (L), Left Forward, Right Forward
Age: 20
Height: 1.67 m / 5.48 ft
Weight: 64 kg / 140 lbs


Report: The Wing Wizard to Bring Glory Back to Romanian Football

It was not all that long ago that Romania was a feared footballing nation. Although not one of Europe's footballing powerhouses, nobody wanted to face Romania.

The Gheorghe Hagi era saw them reach the World Cup quarter-finals in 1994 and Phil Neville will forever be haunted by the memory of Euro 2000 when his late penalty gifted a side containing the likes of Adrian Mutu a passage to the knock-out stage at England's expense.

Yet, Romanian football has been in the doldrums of late. They have failed to qualify for a major tournament since 2000 and exports to major European leagues have all but dried up.

However, with some promising young talent coming through, things could be looking up for Romanian football and Dinamo Bucharest 's diminutive attacking midfielder Gabriel Torje is a major reason for optimism.

Background and history

Torje was born and raised in the town of Timisoara and progressed through the ranks at local side Poli Timisoara. The local prodigy soon made his debut as a mere 16-year-old during the 2005/6 season, lining up against FC Arges. In only his second match against Farul Constanta, Torje opened his goalscoring account and ended the season having played five matches for the senior team.

During the following two seasons he became a vital member of the side despite his youth. The small gifted boy from Timisoara started to attract interest from some of the biggest clubs in Romania, and finally in January 2008 reigning champions Dinamo Bucharest splashed out €1.5million for the midfielder. During the second half of the 2008/9 season, Tourje made fifteen appearances for Dinamo, mainly from the bench. He found the net once but could only help Dinamo to a disappointing fourth place finish.

However, at Dinamo Bucharest , Torje has established a reputation for himself as one of the most gifted, if not the most gifted midfielder in Romania.

Strengths

Torje's natural position is a right-sided attacking midfielder and it is from here that he is best able to showcase his talent.

One of Torje's major assets is his unbelievable speed. His acceleration is very impressive and has become one of his trademarks in Romania. It is a very common sight to see him marauding down the right flank, leaving opponents trailing in his wake. Torje also has excellent technique and is supremely confident on the ball. He has the ability to make the ball do pretty much whatever he wants it to do. His Argentinean teammate, Juan Pablo Garat has gone as far as to compare Torje to Lionel Messi in an interview with a Romanian newspaper. Garat claims that having played with both players, Torje has an unmistakably similar playing style to Messi and is almost impossible to mark.

Torje's combination of great technique and excellent speed makes him a very dangerous player who is able to manipulate the ball at will.

In addition to his ball skills, Torje is also a great passer. He can provide penetrative crosses and Dinamo's strikers really relish his precise and intelligent balls into the box. He has excellent vision of the game and is the sort of player who can change a match with one devastating pass. Torje is a naturally two-footed player, which gives the coach the luxury of being able to switch him to play on either flank.

Torje is also a free kick specialist and can score from long range with both feet. He has shown an ability to score some unbelievable goals from seemingly impossible angles. None more so than in the derby match against Rapid Bucharest this season. With Rapid leading 2-0 Dinamo fought their way back into the game to draw level at two all before Torje found the net from 25 meters with a pile driver to give Dinamo a famous win.

Weaknesses

In order to make his game more complete, Torje will have to improve his aerial ability. In the modern game, players are expected to be athletes as well as gifted technicians. Torje has a slight frame and is particularly weak in the air. Although he is only 5ft 5in and cannot be expected to win too many aerial balls, he must learn to more effectively challenge his opponents for headers.

Mentality

Another challenging weakness for the 20-year-old is the need to curb his off-field excesses. Torje is seen as a party boy in Romania and tabloid reports have linked him with late-night parties and sex scandals. Local fans have unsurprisingly targeted Torje with songs and nicknames about his private life.

Some have said that money and fame have changed Torje from the small-town boy to a maverick who is too interested in the highlife. He will have to prove the doubters wrong in order to succeed.

Current Situation

Torje is unquestionably an integral member of the Dinamo Bucharest first team. Although only 20-years-old, he is seen as one of the stars of the side alongside the likes of Adrian Cristea and Marius Niculae . He has started all but one of Dinamo's games so far this season, scoring three goals and providing two assists already.

Torje is also the captain of the Romania under-21 side and he is talked about one day assuming the captaincy of the senior side. He has yet to make his debut for the full national team and some put this down to a dispute between the national team coach Razvan Lucescu and Torje's agent Giovani Becali.

Torje's talent has unsurprisingly attracted attention from abroad. Following a friendly match against Fiorentina, the coach of the Italian side Cesare Prandelli singled out Torje for praise, branding him an "exceptional talent."

Last summer, both Lazio and Borussia Dortmund were interested in snapping up Torje. However, after the German side refused to raise their bid from €3million to €5million, the midfielder stayed in Romania. Nonetheless, should he continue his current form, work hard and remain disciplined off the pitch, there is every reason to believe that it is only a matter of time before Torje becomes the first in a new generation of Romanians to make a name for themselves abroad.


[youtube]LQEZtgpLXtM[/youtube]
 

vitomins

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henrikh-mkhitaryan


09/02/10 - Henrikh Mkhitaryan

Team: Shakhtar Donetsk (Ukraine)
Shirt Number: 22
Nationality: Armenia
Position: Attacking Midfielder (C)
Secondary: Attacking Midfielder (L,R), Left Forward, Center Forward, Right Forward
Age: 21
Height: 1.78 m / 5.84 ft
Weight: 72 kg / 158 lbs


Report: An Armenian Maestro Dreaming of Arsenal

Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Ukrainian giants Shakhtar Donetsk 's latest acquisition, has already been recognized as the best Armenian Player of 2009 and one of the biggest talents in the Ukrainian league.

It is not surprising that Shakthar agreed to pay an estimated $7.5 million for this starlet's services.

Mkhitaryan just keeps getting better, and without a shadow of a doubt, a successful time at Shakhtar will pave his way to a more prestigious league for the young man.

Background and History

Mkhitaryan was born on January 21, 1989 in the Armenia's capital, Yerevan.

He began his professional career at the local football club, Pyunik Yerevan , starting to play first-team football in 2006.

And it didn’t take long for his talents to shine though.

Mkhitaryan started his romance with Ukrainian football in July 2009 when he moved to Metalurg Donetsk after some tremendous performances in the Armenian league.

Since the start of 2009, he had scored a staggering 11 goals in 10 games for Pyunik, and he managed to maintain his stunning form even after the switch to the tougher Ukrainian league.

Mkhitaryan finished the 2009/10 season at Metalurg Donetsk with an impressive 13 goals and four assists in 35 games and was voted by the Metalurg fans as team's best player, as well as the best Armenian Player of 2009 by the Armenian Football Association.

Strengths

Mkhitaryan is an offensive all-round midfielder renowned within Ukraine for his great technique and passing skills.

He usually likes to play behind the strikers or on the right-wing, but he can also perform adeptly on the left flank.

Mkhitaryan also has good finishing ability and great killer instincts, and his many goals come from his ability to catch defenses by surprise.

Mkhitaryan flourishes in a free role, in which he is always on the move, switching places with his teammates and bursting into the box from the behind the strikers or from the wings. He has a natural gift of positioning himself well between opposition defenders and he is not afraid to gamble in order to get himself into scoring positions.

Containing Mkhitaryan is a hard task and he is expert at getting away from tight markers.

Weaknesses

Mkhitaryan still has to work on his strength as he seems to lack some physical toughness. He is not very aggressive and tends to come off second best in physical challenges. He has to understand that against elite defenders he will have to be more forceful and that the physical aspect of the game will be vital.

Mkhitaryan is also not the fastest of players and developing his physical strength might also give him a boost in speed.

In addition, there is room for improvement on the defensive part of his game, as he lacks defensive tactical awareness and skills.

Mentality

Together with his good technique and attacking skills, Mkhitaryan is also a leader on the pitch.
Despite his young age and the short period of time for which he had been playing for Metalurg, Mkhitaryan became the team captain and one of their most dominant players. He is also expected to lead the Armenia national team in the upcoming years and help the progress of Armenian football.

Current Situation

Mkhitaryan is a very ambitious player.

He has already expressed his desire to move to a better league, and has mentioned his desire to play for Arsenal under the guidance of Arsene Wenger. Now, that he has made his first big step forward, getting straight into the Shakhtar squad, he will have to compete for his place in the first XI against some of the best midfielders in Ukraine.

He will also have the opportunity to gain some experience alongside highly-rated players such as Eduardo , Darijo Srna and Dmytro Chyhrynskyi .

Furthermore, Mkhitaryan will have the opportunity to display his skills on one of the biggest football stages, the Champions League, and compete against some of the best defenders and teams in the world.

There is no doubt that if Mkhitaryan reaps the benefits of this experience and develops his game, he will be able to become a truly great player and maybe one day even fulfill his dream of playing for the Gunners.


[youtube]_Q1pcgktE6E[/youtube]
 

vitomins

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peniel-mlapa


09/08/10 - Peniel Mlapa

Team: TSG Hoffenheim (Germany)
Shirt Number: 22
Nationality: Germany
Position: Center Forward
Secondary: N/A
Age: 19
Height: 1.95 m / 6.4 ft
Weight: 85 kg / 187 lbs


Report: The Powerful Hitman Set to Light Up the Bundesliga

Peniel Mlapa is one of the most exciting prospects in the German Bundesliga this season.

At 6ft 4in, Mlapa is a huge striker and even at only 19-years-old, he has the ability, strength and intelligence to lead TSG Hoffenheim back to the business end of the German league, having finished in a disappointing eleventh place last season. Mlapa has been compared to Manchester City's Emmanuel Adebayor and although he has some way to before reaching that level of play, the youngster is certainly one of Germany's best young strikers.

Background and History

Like his role model Adebayor, Mlapa was born in Togo, in the city of Lomé in February 1991. However, at a very young age, Mlapa and his family moved to Germany where his footballing talent immediately became apparent. Aged only seven-years-old, Mlapa joined local team FC Unterföhring and only two years later, he was snapped up by scouts from Munich's second side 1860 Munich. It was there that he quickly established a reputation as an extremely promising prospect and by the time that he was old enough to be considered for representative honours, Mlapa and his family had been granted German citizenship.

Aged only 17, the striker raced to an impressive 10 goals in 19 games for 1860 Munich's under-19 side in the 2008/2009 season. Promotion to the club's reserve team quickly followed and Mlapa's rapid rise through the ranks was complete when he was handed two first-team appearances towards the end of the season.

Last season, Mlapa began to really make his mark on 1860 Munich and the second tier of German football. He scored his first professional goal in a 3-1 defeat to St Pauli and then began to become a regular fixture in the 1860 Munich side, netting against both Frankfurt and Duisburg soon after his first strike for the club.

In total, Mlapa scored 6 goals in 21 appearances last season, but his overall contribution to the side and the danger which he posed to opposition defences quickly began to draw attention from bigger clubs. Everton were rumoured to be lining up a 3 million euros bid for the youngster towards the end of the campaign.

Unsurprisingly, international recognition quickly followed for Mlapa. His native Togo called him up for a World Cup qualifier against Gabon in November 2009. Faced with the temptation of senior international football, Mlapa decided to commit his future to Germany and was rewarded with selection for the German under-19 side. Following ten appearances at under-19 level, Mlapa made his under-21 debut this year.

Mlapa's rise to prominence was rewarded with a prestigious award from the German Football Association. He was named as their Young Player of the Year, a title previously picked up by the likes of Manuel Neuer , Kevin-Prince Boateng and Toni Kroos .

This summer, Mlapa made the step up to the Bundesliga, signing for Hoffenheim until 2013. The small-town club has a good reputation for developing young talent and the club's manager Ernst Tanner said that he is confident that Mlapa will fulfill his potential in the Bundesliga. The early signs look good as the youngster scored on his debut, an impressive 4-1 win over Werder Bremen.

Strengths

Mlapa takes advantage of a similar physique to Emmanuel Adebayor . At 6ft 4in and 14 kg heavier than Adebayor, he is quite a handful for defences to deal with. Unsurprisingly, Mlapa's physical strength is his key asset and he has already worked out how to use his body to great effect to both beat defenders and shield the ball.

Far from lacking technique, Mlapa's height does not restrict his game at all. He has a good touch and is a real threat in the box. His aerial ability is an obvious danger to defences, but Mlapa also possesses a very powerful shot, particularly on his right foot. All in all, Mlapa is proving very difficult for defences to mark and keep under control.

Weaknesses

Mlapa is however, still very young and at only 19-years-old, he still has plenty to learn. Although he shields the ball well, Mlapa is still learning how best to bring his team-mates into the game with his back to goal. This will likely come with experience and when it does it will help compensate for a relative lack of pace. Mlapa is no slouch, but he relies far more on his physique rather than speed.

Although he clearly has an eye for goal, Mlapa is not a natural poacher. He will have to ensure that when he is presented with a chance in front of goal that more often than not, he takes his opportunity.

Mentality

So far in his brief career, Malapa has shown himself to be a real professional. He is hard working and a popular figure with his team-mates, wherever he has played.

Importantly, Mpala is a grounded figure who values his family and the natural ability that he has been given. Only last year, he commented in an interview that "God has given me a good body" to be a successful footballer. He dedicated his first professional goal for 1860 Munich to his family and noticeably looked up to the stands to spot his watching father as soon as he hit the back of the net.

Current situation

Mlapa has started the season well for Hoffenheim. The team took the Bundesliga by storm in their first season in the top flight and are looking to Mlapa to help consolidate their status as a top half side and to push for Europe.

First-team coach Ernst Tanner commented on Mlapa after the opening day win against Werder Bremen, "I am absolutely convinced of his abilities."

Given his natural strength, ability and work ethic, Mlapa could just develop into another important figure in an outstanding generation of young German talent.


[youtube]8p6mx4tkKLQ[/youtube]
 

Nyall

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I called up Moratti a few months ago, he said 5 for $1 or no deal...

lool honestly keep up the good work! Thanks to you I no longer have scouts on my FM save. :)
 

Stunbel

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I would like to give you another name which you might find exciting..

Muhammed Demirci

Team: Besiktas U-16
Shirt Number: 10
Position: Attacking Midfielder (C)
Secondary: Midfielder (C), Forward (C)
Age: 15 (3 January 1995)

He is playing at Besiktas since he was only 9 years old and we have waited for him for 6 years so far.. He will probably join trainings and even main squad of Besiktas next year so he can improve his game with the help of Guti and others.. He has a medical issue which made him unable to grow up (very similar to Messi's) however, with some good treatment over years his height and physique is pretty normal now.

Inter, Chelsea, Barcelona, Manchester United, Villareal and PSV are among the teams who were interested with him very seriously, but there is no way he will be sold, as i said we are waiting for him to grow up for almost 6 years.. :)

Now i'm posting a video of him, when he was only 10 years old and playing with Besiktas U-13 team against a team with full of 13 years olders.. You will be amazed with his game reading ability and cleverness..

[youtube]kiUA_JriWMs[/youtube]

And yeah, he is 15 years old now and he is still just as good, carrying Besiktas U-15 team and Turkish National U-16 Team to trophies..


And finally! He started to trainings with our main squad! And if i'm not mistaken he's the youngest player ever who joined Besiktas A-Team's trainings, with 15 years old. (Actually he became 16 today)

sddfs.jpg
 

blackmore

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SE SALTELLI....
....hes gonna play at gremio :p
 

blackmore

8|G 8055
La Grande Inter
Joined
Sep 15, 2004
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3
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SE SALTELLI....
theres a million of them out there with talent and skill...but hopefully he can do well in besiktas

*inb4hal* whats the % rate that he's gonna succeed...bwahahahahah!!
 

vitomins

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leroy-fer


09/16/10 - Leroy Fer

Team: Feyenoord (Netherlands)
Shirt Number: 8
Nationality: Netherlands
Position: Attacking Midfielder Left
Secondary: Attacking Midfielder Center, Left Midfielder, Center Midfielder, Defensive Midfielder, Left Defender, Right Defender
Age: 21
Height: 1.88 m / 6.17 ft
Weight: 85 kg / 187 lbs


Report: 'The Bouncer' Ready to Boss the Dutch Midfield

Holland's midfield was instrumental in powering them to the World Cup final. Wesley Sneijder 's ingenuity going forward was bolstered by the physical powerhouses of Nigel De Jong and Mark Van Bommel .

However, expect a new name to be added to the Dutch engine room by 2014. Nicknamed 'The Bouncer', Feyenoord's imposing 20-year-old Leroy Fer has made his international debut and has already made over 90 appearances for the Dutch giants. Unsurprisingly, Fer has been linked with big money moves abroad to the likes of Juventus and Newcastle United.

Background and History

Born and raised in Zoetermeer in south Holland, Fer comes from a family with quite a sporting pedigree. His grandfather was a footballer in the Dutch Antilles, while his father was a baseball player. Fer's younger brother Leegreg also plies his trade in the Dutch top flight with Exelsior.

So, it was no wonder that Fer joined his local club DWO at a very young age, helping them defeat the likes of Sparta Rotterdam and Feyenoord during his time there. Aged just nine, his talent was already obvious and Fer began to play at the Feyenoord youth academy. It was there that youth coach Paul van Gastel recognized Fer's physical attributes and combative attitude, nicknaming him 'The Bouncer'.

Fer progressed through the ranks at Feyenoord and represented Holland at the under-17 European Championships in Belgium in 2007. In December of that year, aged just 17, Fer was handed his senior debut. Current national team coach Bert Van Marwijk threw the youngster on with only six minutes remaining in a 6-0 thrashing of Heracles. Four days later, Fer signed his first professional contract, tying him to Feyenoord until 2012.

He ended up racking up thirteen first-team appearances in the 2007-8 season, mainly coming off the bench. Fer made his first start, against Ajax in February 2008 at right-back and remained there for the following three games. It is testament to his all-round footballing ability that it did not take Fer long to then score his first senior goal a month later.

However, it was the following season, the 2008/9 campaign in which the teenager cemented his place in the Feyenoord side. Utilized almost exclusively in midfield, he usually lined up just behind striker Roy Makaay. Fer received his first taste of European football during this campaign and scored a crucial winner against Kalmar FF to guarantee qualification for the UEFA Cup group stage.

Last season saw Fer mature further and although he dropped back in the formation to become an outstanding defensive midfielder, his career unquestionably advanced. He played a key role in Holland's campaign at the European under-21 championship and was described by highly respected club captain Giovanni van Bronckhorst as "invaluable" to his side. Fer's ability and maturity for a player so young was rewarded with the vice-captaincy at Feyenoord and his first senior cap, awarded by his former club boss Bert van Marwijk.

Strengths

At 6ft 2in, Fer's obvious strength is his physicality and agility. He is undoubtedly able to dominate the centre of the pitch with his imposing presence. Although he could improve his physical strength itself, Fer's size means that not much gets past him. He is also a tough tackler to boot.

However, Fer cannot be labeled merely as a defensive midfielder, a classic midfield general. He is just as valuable bursting forward and creating chances as he is patrolling the middle of the park. Again, his physique enables him to turn defence into attack in a flash. In much the same mould as Patrick Vieira, Fer will battle for the ball and then look to use it with great effect, either by striding forward at pace or using an impressive range of passing to bring others into the game.

His positional play in tight situations in midfield is particularly impressive and exhibits quite some maturity for a young player. Going forward, Fer is a real aerial threat particularly from set pieces. He is also a very versatile player, having been asked to fill rolls from right-back to striker and anywhere across the midfield in his brief career.

Weaknesses

As with every young player, Fer still has plenty of room for development. Although adept at using his athleticism between the boxes, there are aspects of his game that Fer could improve at both ends of the pitch. Defensively, he fails to show the same aerial dominance as he does in attack. Once in and around the opposition's penalty area, Fer could improve the quality of his shooting. Additionally, he would find himself with more goalscoring chances if he were able to better time his runs into the box.

There is also room for Fer to improve his positioning. Although he covers a lot of ground during a game, Fer would need to chase the ball less if his positioning and anticipation were better. This will likely come with experience, but it would also be helped by increasing his physical strength which would enable him to place and use his body to better effect.

Mentality

Fer has a reputation as a hard worker and a likeable and level headed young man. The fact that he is vice-captain at Feyenoord shows the trust and respect that his coaches have for him.

Fer attaches great importance to his family and background. Raised as a Catholic, his religion is still clearly very important to him. Displaying impressive humility, Fer once said "God gave me my football talent. I thank him for that every day." He has a tattoo of the cross on his lower right arm, accompanied with the words "In God I trust."

Before having represented the Holland under-21 side, Fer considered playing internationally for the Netherlands Antilles, the birthplace of his parents. Although he recognized that an international career with Holland would be personally far more advantageous, Fer evaluated for some time, commenting "my roots are stronger than my urge to a career, I'm striving for a higher cause. I don't know yet, but my feelings to play for Netherlands Antilles are very strong."

Current situation

The 20-year-old has attracted attention from the likes of Juventus and Newcastle United already. Having played both in European club competition and at international level, it is little wonder that clubs have been linked with his signature.

Fer's Feyenoord contract expires in 2012 and so now is a crucial juncture in his career. Conscious that they do not wish to lose him for next to nothing once he enters the final year of his contract, Feyenoord are eager to tie the midfielder down to a new deal. Should they fail to do so, the Dutch giants will likely be forced to sell Fer in January, rather than see him leave for a cut-price fee next summer.

Given his natural ability and mature attitude to the game though, wherever he ends up in the coming few years, expect Leroy Fer to make a name for himself in the orange of the Dutch national team.


[youtube]wqW3MwUdpdg[/youtube]
 

vitomins

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manuel-lanzini


09/23/10 - Manuel Lanzini

Team: River Plate (Argentina)
Shirt Number: 20
Nationality: Argentina
Position: Attacking Midfielder Center
Secondary: Attacking Midfielder Left, Attacking Midfielder Right
Age: 18
Height: 1.69 m / 5.54 ft
Weight: 64 kg / 140 lbs


Report: A Jewel in the River

Not often is a teen thrown into a grueling relegation battle.

Managers are prone to protect young players from the high pressure, and gradually ease them into first-team action.

Not so Manuel Lanzini – the next Argentine wonder kid.

At the very young age of 17, the player nicknamed la joya – the jewel - is already a starter in River Plate's most important season in recent years.

The club is struggling to stay above the relegation zone due to bad results in the last three seasons (the relegation system in Argentina is calculated over a three-year cycle.)

But with his dazzling dribbling and close ball control, it's easy to see why River Plate coach Angel Cappa has given Lanzini such a responsibility.

And few would bet against the teen securing River's survival.

Background and History

Lanzini, nicknamed Manu by his teammates, emerged from River Plate's famous youth system and broke into the first team at the beginning of Apertura 2010.

He debuted in River's first match of the Apertura and played the first half alongside his idol, Ariel Ortega.

In his second game, a week later against Independiente, he was instrumental, pulling the strings and setting up a goal with a wonderful pass.

A day after the match, Diego Buonanotte, who played alongside Lanzini for most of the game said: "Lanzini is a classic enganche (playmaker) who loves to get forward. He is a phenomenon. I have looked closely at him and we have talked a lot, he is a very good kid and let's hope he continues playing like this, Manu is going to be a River idol."

Strengths

Lanzini is a classic playmaker, extremely creative with amazing technique, both in his dribbling and shooting.

He is very fast with the ball at his feet and has the ability to beat defenders and play a defense-splitting pass.

He is a lively player, who likes to zip around the midfield, always wanting the ball.

Cappa certainly believes in Lanzini, and he has given him a head start by promoting him at such a young age to the first team. It came despite three or four playmakers already in the River squad, not to mention the competition with other talented playmakers from River's reserve and youth teams, such as Erik Lamela.

Weaknesses

Lanzini needs to improve his decision-making. He is a very young and inexperienced, and therefore on occasion chooses the wrong option. He also needs to improve the physical side to his game as he can easily be brushed off the ball by defenders.

Current situation

It appears Lanzini has a good platform in order to succeed at River this season.

Legendary playmaker Ortega, past his prime and maybe in the last year of his career, is ready to give the enganche role to a younger player.

In addition, the highly-rated Diego Bunonanotte has been the shadow of his former self since the beginning of the season. Bunonanotte doesn't appear to have recovered mentally from the tragedy of December 2009, when he crashed his car into a tree at a high speed. He lost three of his best friends in that accident, as well as sustaining serious injuries himself, and hasn't been able to get back to his fantastic form from before the incident.

Lanzini has tremendous skills with the ball at his feet, and if he seizes the opportunity he has been given, we are sure to witness the next rising star of Argentinean football reach the very top.


[youtube]BqfrujIZkM0[/youtube]
 

vitomins

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stefan-bell


09/30/10 - Stefan Bell

Team: FSV Mainz 05 [on loan at TSV 1860 München] (Germany)
Shirt Number: 3
Nationality: Germany
Position: Central Defender
Secondary: N/A
Age: 19
Height: 1.92 m / 6.3 ft
Weight: 86 kg / 189 lbs


Report: The Next Per Mertesacker

There aren’t too many youngsters who would turn down a chance to sign for the mighty Inter Milan.

But 19-year-old German centre-back Stefan Bell did just that.

And upon reflection, Bell appears to have made a wise choice.

Now on loan from FSV Mainz 05 at 2nd Bundesliga side TSV 1860 München, Bell is playing regularly and demonstrating his tremendous potential.

Already drawing comparisons with the great Per Mertesacker, Bell is ready to lead 1860 back into Germany’s top division.

And current Bundesliga leaders Mainz are rubbing their hands with glee at the prospect of getting back a player who is already deemed one of the best young centre-backs in the country.

Background and History

Bell was born in August 1991 in a small town called Andernach.

He started to play professional football at Tus Mayen, where he actually began as a striker but was converted into a central defender.

In 2007, he moved to the Mainz youth team and he was soon rewarded for his ability and professionalism with the captaincy.

The inevitable call-up to the Germany Under 19 squad wasn’t late in coming, and with it international exposure and attention of scouts from some of Europe’s top clubs.

And after a stellar performance in March 2010 for Germany Under 19s against Italy, then-Inter Milan coach Jose Mourinho was mightily impressed and the Treble winners didn’t waste any time with a firm offer for the teen.

Such was Bell’s potential that the Milan giants submitted a bid to Mainz of €1.5 million and offered Bell a four-year contract – quite staggering for someone who still hadn’t even played a minute for the first team.

The two clubs agreed terms, only for Bell himself to reject the deal, opting to stay at Mainz.

In view of the prized asset he had on his hands, Mainz coach Thomas Tuchel realised that immediate first-team football was a must for the youngster, and decided to loan him out to Munich 1860 in the summer to further his development.

And Bell has fit into 1860 very nicely indeed. He is already a regular at the heart of his side’s defence and even headed a 71st-minute winner in Sunday’s 2-1 victory away at FC Augsburg .

Strengths

Bell is a central defender with the potential to reach the top echelons of the game.

He is very strong and has an imposing presence on the pitch.

At 1.92m / 6.3ft., Bell is a tall player and is great in the air at both ends.

He is an intelligent defender who reads the game very well, possessing great positional sense and excellent anticipation.

He has incredible discipline on the field, and is a good passer of the ball, giving him the ability to start attacks from the back.

Weaknesses

Bell doesn't have any obvious weaknesses, only a few parameters to his game he needs to develop, and those improvements are certain to come with more experience.

He is a bit slow, but he will no doubt learn how to make up for his lack of pace with even better positioning, anticipation and technique.

Mentality

Bell is a natural leader – an attribute quickly noticed by Mainz, who gave him the U-19s captain’s armband.

He is a hard worker who gives everything in every game and at every training session, and is a not afraid of a challenge.

Bell’s composed nature both on and off the pitch will get him far.

Current form

Bell is brimming with confidence playing for Munich 1860, with six fine performances and a goal to his name already.

He will do his utmost to try and to help 1860 climb back to the top flight, but next season he is tipped to return to Europe’s current surprise package, Mainz, and break into the first-team squad.

Bell has a good relationship with Mainz coach Thomas Tuchel, who coached him when he played for the Under 19 side.

"We regularly exchange text messages and phone calls,” Bell recently told the Bild. “He was one of my main trainers and supporters. Under him at Mainz U19s I made by biggest leap forward."

So who better than Tuchel to help Bell develop into a top-class defender,

Bell was recently rewarded for his abilities, winning second prize in the U-19 group at the Fritz Walter Awards for best German youth players. Another IMScouting player to watch, Peniel Mlapa, pipped him to first place.

As long as he keeps progressing, Bell is certain to become a leading player for Mainz or at an even higher-level European side.

And with the German emphasis on youth, don’t be surprised if he is marshalling the Germany defence at the 2014 World Cup finals in Brazil.


[youtube]hJlTnNJVO9k[/youtube]
 

vitomins

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kevin-de-bruyne


10/07/10 - Kevin De Bruyne

Team: KRC Genk (Belgium)
Shirt Number: 14
Nationality: Belgium
Position: Attacking Midfield (L)
Secondary: Attacking Midfield (C,R), Forward (L,C,R)
Age: 19
Height: 1.8 m / 5.91 ft
Weight: 68 kg / 149 lbs


Report: Belgium's Next Great Hope

Young attacking midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is considered one of the great hopes of Belgian football, alongside Eden Hazard, Steven Defour and Romelu Lukaku.


In fact, at KRC Genk his nickname is “the new Steven Defour,” as his high level of skill and technique is very similar to that of Defour at his age.

De Bruyne sees the comparisons with the player three years his senior, but he is quick to point out the differences in their styles of play.

"I am more aggressive than Steven, but he defends better than me,” he said.

De Bruyne is a bubby, confident character, and if he channels that confidence in the right way, he is sure to reach new heights in both club and international football.

Background and History

De Bruyne started playing football when he was seven years old at KVV Drongen, but was quickly discovered by AA Gent.

There he was at their schoolboy and youth systems for six years before receiving several proposals from top clubs Anderlecht, Club Brugge and Genk.

And at 14 years old the talented teen opted for Genk. He saw more chances of a breakthrough there, and was impressed by the club's youth academy, moving into the boarding school there.

In the 2008/9 season, De Bruyne broke into the first-team squad, and featured in the first team aged just 17, coming on as a substitute against Charleroi in the 81st minute in a 3-0 win, and again coming off the bench against Anderlecht in the 83rd minute in a 2-0 defeat.

Although he didn’t receive much playing time under coach Hein Van Haezebrouck, his fortunes changed when coach Franky Vercauteren joined the club in December 2009.

Strengths

De Bruyne has excellent shooting technique with both his stronger right and weaker left foot.

He is quick, has good acceleration and dribbling skills, and neat passing.

De Bruyne is a left winger who likes to cut into the middle and shoot with his strong right foot. He is also dangerous from free-kicks with his extremely accurate and powerful shot. He is a great passer, preferring to play smart balls to feet rather than send crosses into the box, despite the fact that he actually does have a good cross on him.

He has very good dribbling skills, and has the confidence to try new tricks on defenders.

Weaknesses

De Bruyne is not a tall player, so his heading game is very limited.

He also exerts most of his efforts on his attacking moves, sometimes neglecting the defensive side to his game. His positional sense when his team lose possession must improve.

De Bruyne is still an inexperienced player, learning the game and discovering his abilities, so he does make mistakes and has the tendency to lose the ball several times in a match. He must improve his decision-making, as he often fluctuates between the wonderful and the wasteful.

Mentality

De Bruyne was a popular kid. He was nicknamed "Witte,” due to his pale skin and blond hair, which is in contrast to his colourful character.

Unlike Lukaku, De Bruyne quit school to concentrate on his football career.

His mentality is a bit of a mix. He puts a lot of effort into training, and is not the sort of player who makes a habit of arriving late for sessions or one with disciplinary problems off the pitch.

On the other hand, he appears to have a big ego for a player of his age. He is the kind of player who "dares to say what I think," as he said in a recent interview.

And this “courage” was exemplified after the 2-2 draw against KV Mechelen, a game in which he wasn’t exactly firing on all cylinders.

Following the game, De Bruyne told reporters, "I don't like playing on the left flank.”

Coach Vercauteren immediately retorted, "Football is a team sport. Anyone who says something like that is too busy with his ego and I can do without him. And besides, he didn’t do his job well."

Current situation

De Bruyne’s abilities have attracted the attention of a host of clubs.

According to the Belgian press, he was in the sights of FC Twente at the end of the summer transfer window, and negotiations with the Dutch champions were said to be at an advanced stage.

Twente had offered €5 million, but Genk were hoping to get double that figure.

It’s not over though, and an offer in the January transfer window of around €7-8 million could be enough to take De Bruyne to Holland.

According to his agent, Twente could face some fierce competition, with interest from Chelsea and Bayern Munich, as well as from the two biggest clubs in Belgium - Standard Liege and Anderlecht.

However, De Bruyne is contracted to Genk until 2015, and despite the heavy interest in securing his services, it appears unlikely he will move to pastures new at such an early stage in his career.

Current form

De Bruyne has carried forward his good form from last season, and it is likely that this campaign will be even more fruitful for him due to the success of the team, who are currently top of the Pro League, five points above second-placed Anderlecht.

Indeed, he has scored four goals and set up four in eight league games, already topping last season’s tally of three goals and four assists, and he also scored one at Inter Turku in the Europa League. According to IMScouting's unique efficiency report, De Bruyne is the fourth most effective attacking player in the Belgian top flight.

And he has made his breakthrough at international level, too, winning his first cap for Belgium in August, when he played the first half in a 1-0 friendly defeat to Finland.

Without a shadow of a doubt, the future seems bright for De Bruyne and Belgian football.


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vitomins

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itay-shechter


10/14/10 - Itay Shechter

Team: Hapoel Tel Aviv (Israel)
Shirt Number: 9
Nationality: Israel
Position: Forward (C)
Secondary: Forward (L,R), Attacking Midfielder (L,R)
Age: 24
Height: 1.79 m / 5.87 ft
Weight: 74 kg / 162 lbs


Report: Israel's Finest

Hapoel Tel Aviv striker Itay Shechter is the current star of Israeli football.

And after showing his immense potential playing in the local league, he is now beginning to shine in the Champions League and on the international stage.

Shechter made a huge leap forward last season and developed into a player way above the level of the domestic league.

He can still improve his abilities, but he is already a potential transfer target for many European sides.

Until last season, Shechter was just unfulfilled potential. He used to drive his coaches – including his coach at Maccabi Netanya Lothar Matthaus - crazy, dribbling far too much and making poor decisions.
But Shechter got his head down, worked hard at his game and last year tore the league to pieces for Double winners Hapoel.

Shechter is still far from fulfilling his great promise but under the right guidance and in a better training environment, he has the potential to rip even top teams to shreds.

Background and History

Shechter began his playing career in Hapoel Haifa's youth department and during his youth career moved to Hapoel Nazareth Illit. In 2005/6 Nazareth got promoted to the top flight and Shechter was moved to the senior team at the beginning of the season, as a hot prospect for the club's future. He had an impressive debut season scoring three goals in 27 appearances for the modest side, who were relegated from the league at the end of the season.

Due to his excellent displays, Shechter was eyed by several sides. Maccabi Netanya won the battle for his services and the young striker signed a three- year contract with the club, with Netanya paying Nazareth $400k for him.

There were major expectations from both fans and club managers regarding the youngster, and he did put in a strong debut season with his new team, scoring six goals in 30 appearances.

However, Shechter couldn't continue his constant improvement in the 2007/8 and 2008/9 seasons. His scoring record didn't improve and more importantly, he didn't rid his game of any flaws during that time.

The 2008/2009 season was a frustrating one for Shechter. He had a lot of trouble working under Matthaus. The German legend questioned Shechter's professionalism, criticizing him several times in the media. But as their relationship got better, it became clear that Matthaus was simply frustrated Shechter wasn't fulfilling his tremendous potential.

Shechter’s most important step in his career so far was the move to Hapoel Tel Aviv last summer. After a long saga during which Netanya demanded $700k for Shechter, Hapoel paid $500k and Shechter penned a deal to keep him at the club until 2014.

And after scoring on his debut against Swedish side Goteborg, he hasn't looked back.

Strengths

Shechter is characterized first and foremost by his lightening acceleration and pace, which enables him to cause even top defenders major problems. Shechter is not only fast when running without the ball, he is also very quick with the ball thanks to his close control.

Shechter's biggest asset is his ability to beat players in one-on-one situations, making use of his speed and excellent dribbling technique.

He has also become a stronger player who doesn't get knocked off the ball easily.

Shechter is technically skilled. He can unleash excellent shots and play good passes with his stronger right foot, while also possessing the ability to use his left foot quite well.

He is a very unpredictable player, giving defenders a hard time reading his moves.

Despite being a striker with the natural sense of a target man, he is also useful in a supporting role. He is good at holding the ball up and has the physical power to play even as a lone striker. When playing as a support striker he also makes use of his excellent speed, creating space for his partner.

He can also play as a winger on both flanks and has done so for the national team

Shechter is a quick thinker and reacts well to situations and his teammates' movement.

Another strength of Shechter is surprisingly his heading ability. He is not a tall player but he is very athletic and has a very good natural leap as well as good positional sense in the box when the ball is crossed in.

Weaknesses

Most of Shechter's weaknesses have to do with mentality. He is simply a football player who is still maturing, but the big question mark is over whether he will continue the growing-up process.

His lack of mental strength means Shechter's decision-making still needs to improve.

He still sometimes tends to shoot instead of pass, and overdo his dribbling.

Although he hasn't really improved his defensive ability, when Shechter is given tactical freedom, he "returns the favour" to his coach with defensive work

Shechter still has a little room for improvement on the speed in which he makes his decisions, although that aspect of his game has improved.

He also needs to improve his focus. He gets caught offside too much for a player of such speed, and does miss chances in the box.

Also, despite being a very technical player, he is not a player who can build the attacks, and needs to have creative players around him.

He doesn't have great leadership qualities and finds it difficult to lift his team when they are underperforming.

He also doesn't believe enough in his heading abilities, despite having positioning and heading skills of a high calibre.

An extremely crucial weakness Shechter must cut out of his game if he wants to succeed at a higher level is his tendency to go to ground too easily. Shechter has benefitted from the sometimes "whistle-happy" referees in the Israeli league, and will not have this luxury abroad. This flaw was evident in the recent Euro 2012 qualifier against Greece.

Current form

Shechter is currently in excellent form, for both Hapoel Tel Aviv and Israel, despite his club having had a poor start to the season, lying in seventh place.

Playing alongside former Chelsea striker Ben Sahar, Shechter has continued to score and make assists at an amazing rate. He has found the net four times and set up three goals in 10 games this season, including two assists and a goal in Champions League qualifying.

He also scored a fantastic solo effort in Israel's Euro qualifying defeat to Croatia and forced the own-goal to put his country level in the following game against Greece – a match they eventually also lost.

Current situation

After his impressive performances, Shechter is being scouted by a host of clubs from Europe.

It appears that Hapoel have realized already that it will be very difficult for them to keep hold of Shechter as the player himself is being tempted by the idea of a move.

Celtic bid €3 million for Shechter in the summer, but Hapoel turned down the offer, saying they wanted at least €5m.

However, more offers are likely to come their way in January, and Hapoel might not find them so easy to turn down.


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