Manchester United's JJ Gabriel has been named the Premier League Under-18s Player of the Season, with first-team coach Darren Fletcher describing the 15-year-old as an 'amazing talent'. The young forward has impressed against older opponents, scoring his 21st league goal of the campaign last weekend.
Rising Star Set for FA Youth Cup Final
Gabriel is expected to feature in Thursday's FA Youth Cup final against Manchester City. The London-born teenager has already represented England at Under-17 level and could be involved in Manchester United's first-team pre-season preparations this summer, according to the BBC.
Fletcher Praises Attitude and Potential
Under-18s boss Darren Fletcher is keen to manage expectations but acknowledges Gabriel's exceptional talent. 'JJ's an amazing talent,' Fletcher told the BBC. 'He is a fantastic kid. He brings an enthusiasm to the pitch every day to learn, to want to play, to be on the ball. He's desperate to do better, to improve and to learn. He takes constructive criticism well and I've got a great relationship with him.'
Fletcher added: 'I do think we need to remember he is a kid and also he's been part of a really good team, and the players have helped him as well. But JJ has scored the goals and goals always get the limelight. He has a major future and is somebody I've enjoyed working with immensely. His next steps are something people above me will decide. We want him to go up there and thrive, so we need to get him in the position to do that.'
Gabriel Expresses Gratitude
Reacting to his award, Gabriel told MUTV: 'I'm delighted to win this award. I thank my coaches and team-mates for helping me win this amazing award. Since we came together as the Under-18s, we've become a very good team. Everyone looks out for each other and we all work hard for each other. I think we've had a very good season.'
He continued: 'I'd say [the Academy] helped me mature a lot. They help me to be very humble and keep my feet on the ground. I'm delighted to be working with him [Fletcher], he's an amazing coach and has helped me so much this season to become a better player and the best version of myself. I've got to say you've got to maintain working out on the training pitch every single day, giving it my all and working hard in the gym to stay fit and not get injured. My family have helped me a lot, through tough times and good times. They come to all my matches, no matter how far or close, and I love them to bits.'
Footballing Pedigree
Gabriel's father, Joe O'Cearuill, is a former Republic of Ireland international with two caps and previously played for Arsenal, Brighton, Barnet, and Forest Green Rovers among others. The teenager's rapid rise has drawn attention, but those around him remain focused on his development.
