Got a message from a Spurs mate who saw Offiong playing for the U19's. He reckons he was awesome.

-- Anonymous, September 03, 2001

Answers

Offiong is interesting. To date Michael Chopra has got most of the attention, but Richard Offiong seems to be developing faster. I've only seen the lad twice, but he looked to have Shola's (actually his cousin, I believe) physique and close control, but to be a better, more natural finisher - a very interesting combination.

It's great to know we have players like this coming through but we really mustn't put pressure on them - this is an area where I feel BR's influence and legacy could be se seen to be the greatest.

-- Anonymous, September 03, 2001

If they´re good enough and progress fast enough while he´s in charge you do get the impression they´ll get the odd chance under YBR don´t you? Seems as if Coppy is the forgotten man these days?

-- Anonymous, September 03, 2001

Owen was brought into the Liverpool team aged 18

Enough said

-- Anonymous, September 03, 2001

Coppinger has disappeared totally, shame

-- Anonymous, September 03, 2001

Some reporter in the Chronicle's 30p football thingy said that Coppinger would be this season's surprise package (I think)

Then again, it might have been Chopra they were talking about, but from my eyes, Coppinger is better than Chopra.

-- Anonymous, September 03, 2001

Offiong is definitely a potential 1st team player. But I'm hoping to see Carl Bell take the goal keeping world by storm. His folks live next door :-)

For the uninitiated, Carl was U-17 keeper although last season had lots of injury. Currently 'toughening up' for Whitley Bay (in a league with no swearing). Arse full of splinters at Spurs when called up by Wharton, but one to watch at only 18.

-- Anonymous, September 04, 2001